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A Salute to French-American History & Culture

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National French Heritage Month, celebrated annually in July within the United States, stands as a testament to the profound impact of French Americans on the nation’s history and cultural fabric. This month-long celebration serves as an occasion to recognize and honor the significant contributions made by French Americans across various domains.

French Americans have played a pivotal role in shaping the United States since the earliest days of European colonization. Intrepid French explorers, traders, and settlers were among the first Europeans to venture into the uncharted territories of North America, leaving their indelible mark on the Midwest, the Great Lakes region, and the Mississippi River Valley. From the establishment of New Orleans – a vibrant city steeped in French culture – to the founding of Detroit, French Americans have left an enduring legacy on the landscape of the United States.

Throughout history, French Americans have made remarkable contributions in numerous spheres. In politics and government, they have held high-ranking positions, serving as presidents, governors, senators, and representatives, shaping policies and decisions that have influenced the course of the nation. In business and industry, French Americans have demonstrated their entrepreneurial spirit, establishing and leading successful enterprises that have driven economic growth and innovation.

French Americans have also left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the United States. Their influence is evident in American literature, where renowned authors such as Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald have woven French themes and settings into their works. In music, French American artists like Edith Piaf and Django Reinhardt have captivated audiences worldwide with their unique blend of jazz and French chanson. In art and film, French American directors, actors, and artists have made significant contributions, bringing a touch of French flair to Hollywood and the art world.

Moreover, French Americans have made notable strides in the fields of science and technology. Their intellectual curiosity and innovative spirit have led to groundbreaking discoveries and inventions. French Americans have played a crucial role in advancing medicine, engineering, and space exploration, contributing to the advancement of human knowledge and progress.

National French Heritage Month provides an opportunity for all Americans to celebrate the rich history and culture of French Americans. It is a time to recognize their invaluable contributions and to appreciate the enduring impact they have had on the United States. Through festivals, parades, educational programs, and cultural events, this month-long celebration fosters a greater understanding and appreciation of French American heritage, strengthening the bonds between the United States and France.

From the early days of exploration and settlement to the present day, France has played a pivotal role in shaping the identity and character of America. This month, let us celebrate and honor this rich legacy with enthusiasm and appreciation.

Here are some ways to celebrate the French influence on American culture and history in July:

  • Culinary Exploration: Indulge in the delectable flavors of French cuisine by visiting a French restaurant or trying your hand at preparing some classic French dishes at home. From the iconic ratatouille to the delicate flavors of coq au vin, there are countless culinary delights to savor.
  • Cinematic Masterpieces: Immerse yourself in the world of French cinema by watching a selection of acclaimed French films. From the poetic realism of Jean Renoir to the New Wave movement of the 1960s, French cinema offers a diverse range of cinematic experiences.
  • Musical Journey: Discover the rich tapestry of French music by listening to various genres, from classical composers such as Debussy and Ravel to contemporary artists like Daft Punk and Christine and the Queens. Let the melodies and rhythms transport you to the vibrant streets of Paris or the serene countryside of Provence.
  • Literary Gems: Dive into the world of French literature by reading some of the most influential works of French authors. From the philosophical insights of Voltaire and Rousseau to the evocative prose of Victor Hugo and Marcel Proust, French literature offers a profound exploration of the human experience.
  • Historical Exploration: Visit French museums or historical sites in the United States to gain a deeper understanding of the French impact on American history. Explore the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana, or marvel at the grandeur of the Château de Ramezay in Montreal, Canada.
  • Language Immersion: Immerse yourself in the beauty and complexity of the French language by learning a few basic phrases or enrolling in a French language class. Even a few simple words and expressions can open up a world of cultural understanding.
  • Festive Celebrations: Attend Bastille Day celebrations, the French national holiday, which takes place on July 14th. Enjoy parades, concerts, and traditional French cuisine while immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere.
  • Theatrical Performances: Experience the vibrant world of French theater by attending a performance of a classic French play or a contemporary work by a French playwright. The Comédie-Française in Paris is a renowned venue for experiencing the best of French theater.

By celebrating the French influence on American culture and history in July, we not only pay tribute to the past but also enrich our present and future. Embrace the opportunity to explore, learn, and appreciate the enduring legacy of France in America.

Celebrating Independence Day

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The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence, which was signed on July 4, 1776. The Declaration of Independence was a formal statement written by Thomas Jefferson and adopted by the Continental Congress, declaring that the thirteen American colonies were no longer subject to British rule and were now independent states.

The 4th of July is a day of national celebration, with parades, fireworks, barbecues, and other festivities taking place across the country. It is a time for Americans to reflect on their history, their independence, and their shared values.

Significance of the 4th of July

The 4th of July is a day to celebrate the birth of the United States of America. It is a day to remember the sacrifices made by the Founding Fathers and the brave men and women who have served in the military to protect our freedom. It is also a day to celebrate the values of liberty, equality, and democracy that are enshrined in the Declaration of Independence.

A Nation’s Story

On July 5, 1852, Frederick Douglass gave a keynote address at an Independence Day celebration and asked, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” Douglass was a powerful orator, often traveling six months out of the year to give lectures on abolition. His speech, given at an event commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence, was held at Corinthian Hall in Rochester, New York. It was a scathing speech in which Douglass stated, “This Fourth of July is yours, not mine, You may rejoice, I must mourn.” For the full speech, click HERE.

Cultural Celebration of the 4th of July

The 4th of July is a day for Americans to come together and celebrate their shared heritage. It is a day to enjoy the company of family and friends, to eat good food, and to watch fireworks. Although much has changed since Douglas wrote his scathing Keynote about the state of Black America in the celebration of Independence Day, the mention of “Black jobs” by former president Trump who is seeking another term as president, speaks of the blatant racism and discrimination that still plagues the nation, and that our work is incomplete in bringing about an America where all her people are truly free and treated justly. 

Some of the most popular 4th of July traditions include:

  • Parades: Parades are held in cities and towns across the country on the 4th of July. Parades typically feature floats, marching bands, and other performers.
  • Fireworks: Fireworks are a staple of 4th of July celebrations. Fireworks displays are held in cities and towns across the country on the night of July 4th.
  • Barbecues: Barbecues are a popular way to celebrate the 4th of July with family and friends. Barbecued foods such as hamburgers, hot dogs, and ribs are often served at 4th

LBJ Dropped Out, Will Biden Follow Suit?

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By JEANETTE LENOIR

 

In March 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson shocked the nation by announcing that he would not seek re-election. This decision came after months of speculation and pressure from within his own party.

There were several factors that contributed to Johnson’s decision. One was the growing unpopularity of the Vietnam War. The war had become increasingly unpopular with the American public, and Johnson’s approval ratings had plummeted. Another factor was the growing opposition to Johnson within his own party. Many Democrats felt that Johnson had become too authoritarian and that his policies were too divisive.

Finally, Johnson’s health was also a factor in his decision. He had suffered a heart attack in 1955, and he was concerned that the stress of the campaign would be too much for him. In his announcement, Johnson said that he had made the “difficult decision” to drop out of the race in order to “put the welfare of the country first.” He also said that he believed that the Democratic Party could unite and defeat the Republican candidate, Richard Nixon. Johnson’s decision to drop out of the race had a significant impact on the 1968 presidential election. Nixon went on to win the election, and the Vietnam War continued to divide the country for many years to come.

The cyclical nature of history 

Today, America has reached a similar reflection point in the reelection of President Biden. And the barbaric genocide of the Palestinian people at the hands of our so-called ally, Israel, reawakens the horrors of Vietnam. The nation is facing an uncertain future without a savior, a champion for The People, one able to fight for a more just and equitable future. And former president Trump, responsible for the January 6th attack on the Capitol and indicted on 34 felony counts, is the candidate being forced down our throats despite the real threat he presents to the ideals and hope for an America that has yet to be. 

Consistently repeating false narratives, the American people are manipulated and heavily propagandized by corporate media to believe that we are faced with choosing one of the two supporters of Israel’s genocide that has killed 40,000 people and counting, mostly innocent civilians; women, children, and the elderly, including journalists. This, despite having other viable candidates to choose from like Jill Stein, the Green Party candidate and Cornel West, an Independent, and a few others that have not yet dropped out of the race for the White House. The media ignores them all by way of manipulation and false offerings. It is simply un-American. And it is so because our country has been compromised by our elected leaders who took bribes from lobbyists and corporations and sold us all out. Today, it’s evident who controls Congress: AIPAC, an Israeli foreign lobby. And if the recent unseating of Rep. Jamaal Bowman didn’t give a clue, here’s the mail, it never fails. 

What’s happening globally will hurt us domestically

The barbarism taking place with boastful impunity in full HD has shaken the world, not just America. And our government’s role in these atrocities lies squarely before Biden and Trump. They both support the genocide and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people for the sake of religious zealots; Zionists who confidently believe there is no God, and at the same time, say they are God’s “chosen people” and above all others. Imagine that.  And we can’t forget what our government is actively doing in Ukraine and Russia, against our will. And these aren’t the only two conflicts America is engaged in. What’s happening in Haiti tells of a coming storm too, the likes of which the world has never seen. 

The recent rulings by the Supreme Court, also a compromised institution, is deliberately weakening federal regulations, producing earthquake-like shockwaves to our legal system and governing structure right before our eyes. Why? Because Congress is compromised, too. Congress is being bought and sold at auction by lobbyists, corporations and foreign influences intent on our destruction and downfall as a powerful nation. And corporate media is driving the bus fast and furious. They blatantly lie to the American people with comfortable ease, especially when they offer us two false choices–Biden and Trump–to lead us into an uncertain future under global duress. Folks, America is in trouble and the rot started within. 

Will Biden step aside?

If history has any merit, yes. And the calls are coming in loud and clear in the face of his party’s denial and panic at their offering for a leader following a disastrous debate; a clearly feeble man in his 80s who needs assistance to walk and talk. The contempt the Democratic Party is showing it has for We, the People is profound. Major news corporations, owned by vicious oligarchs who see profit instead of people, are now calling on Biden to step down. “The truth Mr. Biden needs to confront now is that he failed his own test,” the NYT editorial board wrote. In return, they’re offering the American people only one choice: an unhinged racist felon that will help drive their ultimate agenda, the implementation of Project 2025.

Who do we run to? 

No one. We, the People ARE the government. And it is up to each and every one of us to show up and vote, because our very lives are at stake. Will Biden repeat the story of Truman? Who knows, but it’s a risk Democrats are apparently willing to take. And if The Heritage Foundation gets its way, neoconservative Republicans and their Project 2025 agenda will turn us back to a wrinkle in time when white supremacy and racial barbarism ruled America. We can’t let that happen. 

Americans must take responsibility for their country, see all the real and clear choices before them, and vote to hold our rogue government tearing us apart accountable. 

Biden and Trump are not our saviors. They are the symbolic anchors keeping America in a sunken place. I believe America is worth saving, and who you vote for will determine if we have a chance at turning back toward the America Langston Hughes dreamed of not so long ago. We must all be at the table when company comes, because our elected officials have no right to give foreign governments, lobbyists and corporations the authority to send us to the kitchen while they feast on our hard earned harvest.  The American Dream belongs to Americans, not to lawbreakers, the highest bidders and corrupt politicians.

Power belongs to We, the People. Let’s vote to take it back and change the course for America’s future, together. 

Prince’s Purple Rain Film Turns 40: A Cultural Retrospective

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Released in 1984, Prince’s iconic film Purple Rain turned 40 this year. The movie was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $68 million worldwide and spawning several hit singles, including the title track, “When Doves Cry,” and “Let’s Go Crazy.”

Beyond its commercial success, Purple Rain had a profound impact on American popular culture. The film’s innovative use of music, fashion, and visual imagery made it a groundbreaking work of art that continues to inspire and influence artists and filmmakers today.

Cultural Significance

Music:

Purple Rain’s soundtrack is considered one of the greatest albums of all time. The film’s music helped to popularize the Minneapolis sound, a unique blend of funk, rock, and R&B that would go on to influence a generation of musicians. Artists like Janet Jackson, Madonna, and Michael Jackson all cite Purple Rain as a major influence on their own work.

Fashion:

Prince’s unique and flamboyant style, as seen in the film, became a major fashion influence in the 1980s and beyond. His signature look, which often included ruffled shirts, tight pants, and high heels, was imitated by fans around the world. Prince’s fashion sense continues to inspire designers and fashion icons today.

Visual Imagery:

Purple Rain’s striking visuals, directed by Albert Magnoli, have been praised for their artistry and originality. The film’s iconic scenes, such as the motorcycle ride and the concert finale, have become ingrained in pop culture. Purple Rain’s visuals have been referenced in countless movies, TV shows, and music videos over the years.

Legacy:

Purple Rain’s cultural impact can be seen in the work of numerous artists, including Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Beyoncé. The film has also been referenced in countless movies, TV shows, and music videos. In 2019, Purple Rain was inducted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, deeming it “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”

Purple Rain’s 40th anniversary is a testament to its enduring power and influence. The film remains a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

“Purple Rain” had a tremendous influence on the music of its time and the music of the future. It launched the Minneapolis Sound and propelled the careers of the artists who performed with and were produced by Prince (most notably André Cymone, Dez Dickerson, Wendy & Lisa, Brownmark, Bobby Z. Dr. Fink, Morris Day, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Jesse Johnson, Jellybean Johnson, Monte Moir, Jerome Benton, St. Paul Peterson, Susannah Melvoin, Jill Jones, Sheila E., and Eric Leeds). Pop/rock artists including Sheena Easton and the Bangles both had hits with songs Prince wrote during the “Purple Rain” sessions. Decades later, “Purple Rain” influenced a new generation of musicians and performers including Alicia Keys, Questlove, D’Angelo, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Bruno Mars, and Janelle Monae.

Refusing to be pigeonholed by critics and the music industry, Prince continued to explore jazz, classical, gospel, blues, Latin, and rap music while furthering the boundaries of rock, pop, R&B, and funk right up until his transition to the afterworld in 2016. – Eddie Santiago

ICYMI: The 2024 Summer Olympics Are a Month Away

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The 2024 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad (French: Jeux de la XXXIIIe Olympiade), is an international multi-sport event scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11, 2024, in Paris, France.

Host City

Paris was elected as the host city on September 13, 2017, at the 131st IOC Session in Lima, Peru. Paris previously hosted the Summer Olympics in 1900 and 1924, making it the third city, after London and Athens, to have hosted the Summer Olympics three times.

Venues

The Olympic venues will be located in and around Paris, with some events also taking place in other cities in France. The main Olympic Stadium will be the Stade de France, which will host the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as the track and field events. Other notable venues include the Eiffel Tower, which will host the beach volleyball competition, and the Grand Palais, which will host the fencing and taekwondo competitions.

Sports

The 2024 Summer Olympics will feature 28 sports, with 329 events in total. This includes the return of breakdancing, which was added to the program for the first time. Other sports making their Olympic debut in 2024 include skateboarding, sport climbing, and surfing.

Participating Countries

Over 200 countries are expected to participate in the 2024 Summer Olympics. The number of participating countries has steadily increased over the years, reflecting the growing popularity of the Olympic Games.

Tickets

Tickets for the 2024 Summer Olympics went on sale in 2023. Prices for tickets will vary depending on the sport, the event, and the seat location.

Impact

The 2024 Summer Olympics are expected to have a significant impact on Paris and France. The games are expected to attract millions of visitors and generate billions of dollars in revenue. The games are also expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and improve infrastructure in Paris and France.

Legacy

The 2024 Summer Olympics are expected to leave a lasting legacy on Paris and France. The games are expected to help improve infrastructure, promote tourism, and create jobs. The games are also expected to inspire young people to get involved in sports and to promote the values of Olympism.

Women Continue to Shape Universal Human Rights

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International Day of Women in Diplomacy is celebrated annually on June 24th to recognize the important contributions and achievements of women in the field of diplomacy. The day aims to promote gender equality in diplomacy and to encourage the participation of women in peace and security negotiations.

History

The International Day of Women in Diplomacy was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018. The resolution was co-sponsored by over 50 countries and was adopted by consensus.

Importance

The International Day of Women in Diplomacy is an important opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women in diplomacy and to raise awareness of the challenges they face. The day also serves to promote gender equality in diplomacy and to encourage the participation of women in peace and security negotiations.

Challenges Facing Women in Diplomacy

Women in diplomacy continue to face a number of challenges, including:

  • Gender discrimination: Women are often underrepresented in diplomatic positions and are less likely to be promoted to senior positions.
  • Sexual harassment and violence: Women in diplomacy are often subjected to sexual harassment and violence, which can create a hostile work environment and make it difficult for women to succeed.
  • Lack of access to training and opportunities: Women in diplomacy often have less access to training and opportunities than men, which can limit their career development.

Progress

Despite the challenges, there has been some progress in terms of gender equality in diplomacy. In recent years, more women have been appointed to senior diplomatic positions and there have been a number of initiatives to promote the participation of women in peace and security negotiations.

Did you know?

  • There are 31 countries where 34 women serve as Heads of State and/or Government as of January 2023.
  • Of the five United Nations-led or co-led peace processes in 2021, two were led by women mediators, and all five consulted with civil society and were provided with gender expertise.
  • In 2022, the Security Council held its first-ever formal meeting focusing on reprisals against women participating in peace and security processes.
  • In multilateral disarmament forums, wide gaps persist in women’s participation and women remain grossly underrepresented in many weapons-related fields, including technical arms control – only 12 percent of Ministers of Defense globally are women.
  • Countries where there are more women in legislative and executive branches of government have less defense spending and more social spending.

Conclusion

The International Day of Women in Diplomacy is an important opportunity to celebrate the progress that has been made in terms of gender equality in diplomacy and to reaffirm the commitment to achieving full gender equality in this field.

To watch the United Nations Commemorative Event to mark International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2024, click HERE. 

Native American Prophecy: The White Bison Calf, a Sacred Journey of Hope And Renewal

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Deep within the heart of many Native American tribes lies a sacred prophecy, whispered through generations: the prophecy of the white bison calf. This prophecy foretells an era of profound change and transformation, when a miraculous creature—a white bison calf—will emerge as a beacon of hope and renewal.

According to the prophecy, this extraordinary being will be born of a white buffalo cow and a black buffalo bull, symbolizing the union of opposites and the harmony of all living things. Its arrival will signal that the time has come for the Native American people to reconnect with their spiritual heritage and embrace their ancestral wisdom.

“The reported birth of a rare white buffalo in Yellowstone National Park fulfills a Lakota prophecy that portends better times, according to members of the American Indian tribe who cautioned that it’s also a signal that more must be done to protect the earth and its animals.” – VOA

The prophecy speaks of a time of great upheaval and change, when the old ways will be challenged and new paths will be forged. The white bison calf will serve as a guiding light during this period of transition, offering hope and inspiration to those who seek a brighter future. It will remind the Native American people of their inherent strength and resilience, and encourage them to stand together in unity and purpose.

Beyond its significance for the Native American tribes, the prophecy of the white bison calf carries a universal message of hope and renewal. It symbolizes the potential for all of us to create a better world, one that is rooted in compassion, respect for nature, and a deep connection to the sacredness of life.

This prophecy is a reminder of the importance of tradition, spirituality, and our interconnectedness with the land. It invites us to embrace the wisdom of our ancestors and to live in harmony with all living beings. By honoring the prophecy of the white bison calf, we open ourselves up to the possibility of a brighter future, one where hope prevails and renewal flourishes.

The prophecy of the white bison calf serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for a better tomorrow. It encourages us to embrace change, to learn from the past, and to work together to create a sustainable and harmonious world for all.

Broken Pledges: Being Black in America

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The phrase “40 acres and a mule” holds profound historical significance, symbolizing the unfulfilled promise of land and reparations to African Americans after the Civil War. It supposedly originated from a speech delivered by Union General William T. Sherman on January 16, 1865, in Savannah, Georgia. In a bold move, Sherman promised that freed slaves would receive 40 acres of land and a mule from the confiscated lands of Confederate landowners.

“We have been taught in school that the source of the policy of “40 acres and a mule” was Union General William T. Sherman’s Special Field Order No. 15, issued on Jan. 16, 1865. (That account is half-right: Sherman prescribed the 40 acres in that Order, but not the mule. The mule would come later.) But what many accounts leave out is that this idea for massive land redistribution actually was the result of a discussion that Sherman and Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton held four days before Sherman issued the Order, with 20 leaders of the black community in Savannah, Ga., where Sherman was headquartered following his famous March to the Sea. The meeting was unprecedented in American history.” – Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

This promise, however, was never fully realized. President Andrew Johnson, who succeeded Abraham Lincoln after his assassination, reversed Sherman’s order, returning most of the confiscated land to its former owners. While some African Americans did manage to acquire land under the Homestead Act of 1862, they encountered numerous obstacles, including rampant discrimination, violence, and economic hardship.

The failure to provide land and reparations to African Americans had far-reaching consequences. It perpetuated poverty, segregation, and inequality, leaving a lasting impact on generations of African Americans that is still felt and experienced today. This unfulfilled promise continues to serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice in the United States. 

Beyond its historical significance, the phrase “40 acres and a mule” has taken on a broader meaning, representing the collective demand for reparations and acknowledgment of the injustices faced by African Americans throughout history. It encapsulates the desire for not only material restitution but also for the recognition and repair of the deep wounds inflicted by slavery and its aftermath.

Today, the phrase remains a powerful symbol of resistance and resilience, inspiring activists, artists, and scholars to continue advocating for racial justice and equality. It serves as a reminder that the fight for reparations and a just society is far from over.

It’s Caribbean-American Heritage Month!

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June is Caribbean-American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich history, culture, and achievements of Caribbean Americans and their contributions to American culture, ingenuity and history. This year’s theme is “Celebrating Caribbean Contributions to American History, Culture, and Life.”

“Caribbean Americans are dreamers and doers, always finding ways to push our country forward, reach new heights, and forge a more perfect Union. From the Caribbean Americans who helped build our country from the ground up to those who have only just arrived, they have all believed in the possibilities our country has to offer and strengthened the diverse fabric of our Nation. Above all, Caribbean Americans are leaders — they are our beloved doctors, nurses, teachers, athletes, artists, community organizers, entrepreneurs, and our service members and first responders, who put their lives on the line to keep the rest of us safe.” -The 2024 White House Proclamation on Caribbean-American Heritage Month

History

The Caribbean-American community is one of the most diverse in the United States, with people from over 30 different countries of origin. Caribbean Americans began immigrating to the United States in large numbers in the 19th century, and their numbers have continued to grow in recent decades. Today, there are over 4 million Caribbean Americans living in the United States. 

Culture

Caribbean-American culture is a vibrant mix of African, European, and indigenous influences. This is reflected in the music, food, dance, and literature of the Caribbean-American community.

Achievements

Caribbean Americans have made significant contributions to the United States in all fields of endeavor. They have served with distinction in the military, government, and business. They have also made important contributions to the arts, sciences, and sports.

Trailblazers

Charles L. Reason was born in 1818, in New York City, to Haitian and Guadaloupean parents. Reason was the first black college professor in the United States, teaching at the integrated New York Central College from 1849 to 1852. In 1847, he co-founded the Society for the Promotion of Education among Colored Children, and he devoted his life to education and the abolition of slavery and segregation.

Born in 1924 to a Guyanese American father and a Barbadian American mother in New York, Shirley Chisholm was a groundbreaking politician and an outspoken advocate for equality. She was the first Black candidate for a major American party’s presidential nomination and the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress, a position she held for 14 years.

Dr. Antonia Novello was born in 1944, in Fajardo, Puerto Rico. She served as the U.S. Attorney General from 1990 to 1993 under President George Bush, making her the first person of Latin American descent and the first woman to do so.

Colin Luther Powell was born in New York in 1937 to Jamaican immigrants. After growing up in the South Bronx, Powell attended the City College of New York, where he participated in ROTC, leading the precision drill team and attaining the top rank offered by the corps, cadet colonel. He was the first African American appointed as the U.S. Secretary of State and the first, and so far the only, to serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Dr. Roy Hastick was born in Grenada in 1950 and migrated to the United States in 1972. He served as an elected delegate to the White House Conference on Small Business and as a special delegate to the United Nations. In 1985, he founded the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry, whose mission is to promote economic development and small business services.

Through the leadership of these individuals and others like them, we’ve seen expanded opportunities and better working conditions for all of America’s workers. – U.S. Dept. of Labor Blog

Celebrating Caribbean-American Heritage Month

There are many ways to celebrate Caribbean-American Heritage Month. You can attend cultural events, learn about Caribbean history and culture, and support Caribbean-American businesses. You can also use this month as an opportunity to reflect on the contributions that Caribbean Americans have made to the United States.

Here are some ideas for celebrating Caribbean-American Heritage Month:

  • Attend a Caribbean festival or carnival
  • Visit a Caribbean restaurant
  • Listen to Caribbean music
  • Watch a Caribbean movie
  • Read a book by a Caribbean-American author – Jeanette Lenoir will be reading her book, Maggie Is Afraid Of Heights, at the Brigadier General Charles E. McGee Library (Silver Spring Library). 
  • Support Caribbean-American businesses
  • Learn about Caribbean history and culture
  • Share your own Caribbean-American story

Juneteenth: Oldest Celebration of Slavery’s End in America

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Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, is an annual holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It is celebrated on June 19th, the anniversary of the day in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that the enslaved people of the state were free. This news came more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863.

Juneteenth is Wednesday, June 19, 2024! Juneteenth was first recognized by the state of Texas. It is also known as “Freedom Day,” “Juneteenth National Independence Day,” or “Emancipation Day.”

Why is Juneteenth significant in American history?

Juneteenth is a significant date in American history for several reasons:

  • It marks the end of slavery in the United States, which was a major turning point in the nation’s history.
  • It is a reminder of the long and difficult struggle for freedom and equality for African Americans in the United States.
  • It is a celebration of African American culture and heritage.
  • It is an opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made in race relations in the United States, and to recommit to the work that still needs to be done to achieve true equality.

How is Juneteenth celebrated?

Juneteenth is celebrated in a variety of ways across the United States. Some common activities include:

Juneteenth is a time for African Americans to come together and celebrate their freedom and culture. It is also a time for all Americans to reflect on the history of slavery in the United States and to recommit to the work of achieving racial justice and equality.

Why is Juneteenth important today?

Juneteenth is important today for several reasons:

  • It is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality in the United States.
  • It is an opportunity to educate people about the history of slavery and its lasting impact.
  • It is a time to celebrate the progress that has been made in race relations, and to recommit to the work that still needs to be done.

Juneteenth is a day for all Americans to come together and celebrate the freedom and equality of all people.

“Now I’ve been free, I know what a dreadful condition slavery is. I have seen hundreds of escaped slaves, but I never saw one who was willing to go back and be a slave.” –Harriet Tubman (1820–1913), American abolitionist and political activist.