Benjamin Chavis
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Collective goals for 2016
Whenever we begin a new calendar year, it can be useful to make New Year’s resolutions to prioritize and focus for the immediate future. What should be our collective goals and strategic objectives during the next 12 months? Recent academic studies by the Dominican University of California on the importance of goal setting to overcome individual and social procrastination revealed that writing down your resolutions and sharing your goals with others you care about will help you work more diligently to achieve those goals.
Bond’s legacy, spirit live on
There is an African proverb that says, “The spirit of a freedom warrior will never die in the enduring life of the village, yet that valued spirit will be passed on to future generations.” Julian Bond was a freedom fighter. He was a gallant leader-warrior for freedom, justice and equality. And his spirit will never die. The National Newspaper Publishers Association family pauses to mourn the passing of civil rights leader Julian Bond. But we also know that it is important to highlight those lasting lessons from Mr. Bond’s legacy that apply to today’s struggle for freedom.
Mobilizing for ‘Justice’ march
When Minister Louis Farrakhan issues a sacred clarion call for a national and international mobilization for justice, freedom and equality, millions of people across America and throughout the world respond with responsive enthusiasm and energy. Such was the case in response to the minister’s call for the Million Man March in Washington, 20 years ago. I believe that history will be made once again on Oct. 10 in Washington.
Africa and Obama ‘On the Move’
President Obama continues to be strategic about how he represents his race, genealogy and his commitment to promote and sustain African freedom and empowerment. The president’s historic trip to Kenya and to Ethiopia is indicative of his distinctive characteristic of taking strategic moves that go far beyond the traditional limitations of American politics and global outreach. This was his fourth trip to Africa. As the first sitting American president to visit Kenya and Ethiopia, his timing could not have come at a better time.
A cue from Frederick Douglass
As our nation prepares for its annual celebration of Independence Day, I re-read Frederick Douglass’ Fourth of July speech delivered 163 years ago in Rochester, N.Y. I look at it with a specific eye toward what we can learn from it in the wake of the recent tragedies of Charleston and North Charleston, S.C.; Cleveland; New York City; Ferguson, Mo; and Sanford, Fla. Frederick Douglass observed, “Oppression makes a wise man mad. With brave men there is always a remedy for oppression…The freedom gained is yours; and you, therefore, may properly celebrate this anniversary. The 4th of July is the first great fact in your nation’s history—the very ringbolt in the chain of your yet undeveloped destiny…Pride and patriotism, not less than gratitude, prompt you to celebrate and to hold it in perpetual remembrance.
Black Press
188 years of excellence
In recognition of the 75th anniversary of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, it is important to emphasize both the historical and contemporary mission, value and success of the Black Press in America. For the past 188 years black Americans have labored diligently and responsibly to publish and distribute black-owned newspapers in the interests of millions of black Americans and others who cry out for freedom, justice, equality and empowerment.
Million Man March 20 years later
On Oct. 16, we will commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Million Man March. In the subsequent two decades black Americans have experienced great triumphs, tragedies and tribulations.
On Prince Hall’s shoulders
Too often, some of us forget about the historical groups and social bridges that have helped to bring black America across troubled and perilous waters during the last two centuries. One group is known today as the Grand Lodge of Prince Hall Masons. They have grown exponentially from their first lodge in Boston in 1787 to numerous masonic lodges throughout the United States. Without a lot of external fanfare or public boasting, this organization of skilled and talented “Brothers” have been consistent in contributing to the long protracted progress of black America. The living legacy of Prince Hall is still focused on the mission of providing leadership of high moral character, charitable assistance to those in need and steadfast support of freedom, justice, equality and empowerment for black Americans and all people.
Each generation offers something
Whether it is in an inner-city neighborhood across America, the Caribbean, in Europe or in a sprawling mass of people in an African or Brazilian urban area, millions of black youths throughout the world are crying out for a better quality of life. They should always have a better life than their parents. I always try to keep my eyes and ears open to see and hear what our youths are saying and doing. The axiom that the future is in the hands of the young is certainly true today. I admire and support young people who stand up and speak out for freedom and equal justice.
Let’s keep making black history
The best way to celebrate Black History Month is to make more black history. Black History Month is now celebrated around the world. We are grateful for the visionary leadership of noted historian and scholar Carter G. Woodson for being the founder of what was known as Negro History Week in 1926 that, 44 years later, evolved into Black His- tory Month. It is also important to note that this year marks
