Maryland Gov. Wes Moore is gaining national attention as a unifying Democratic leader and potential presidential contender praised for his service, charisma, and crisis leadership.
By Stacey M Brown | April 21, 2025
As the Democratic Party continues to search for a new identity and fresh leadership, attention is turning to Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, who is rapidly emerging as a rising national figure — and a potential presidential contender. Moore, who gained national acclaim alongside Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott for their steady leadership following the deadly Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, has received praise for his charisma, military service, executive leadership, and ability to unite a fractured party. Hollywood heavyweight George Clooney, a vocal critic of President Joe Biden’s now-abandoned reelection bid, told CNN this week that Moore was “levitating” above the rest of the Democratic field. “There’s one person in particular I think is spectacular,” Clooney said in an interview, where he was also promoting his Broadway portrayal of legendary journalist Edward R. Murrow. “I think [Moore] is a guy that has handled this tragedy in Baltimore beautifully. He does two tours of duty in Afghanistan — active duty. He speaks beautifully. He’s smart. He ran a hedge fund — the Robin Hood Foundation. He’s a proper leader.”
The Academy Award winner, whose July 2024 op-ed helped accelerate Biden’s decision to exit the race, praised other Democratic governors like Andy Beshear of Kentucky and Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan. But his focus remained squarely on Moore. “We say Democrats fall in love and Republicans fall in line,” Clooney added. “I think he could be someone we could all join in behind. We have to find somebody rather soon.” Moore, 46, became Maryland’s first Black governor in 2023. While speculation about his national ambitions grows, he insists he remains focused on his state. “I am not focused on anything, except for making sure this is Maryland’s decade,” Moore said in a televised interview this week. He highlighted a new state tax cut and added, “I’m really proud of what Maryland is doing, and I’m focused on making sure we keep that progress going.”
Still, admiration for Moore comes from across the country — and within his party. “The governor has been incredible and I’m proud to be working with him,” Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott told the Washington Informer at this week’s African American Mayors Conference in D.C. Najaa Rice, who traveled from Atlanta for the event, echoed that sentiment. “Wes Moore — President Wes Moore,” she said. “It’s not just because he’s Black. Sen. Tim Scott is Black and I wouldn’t dream of supporting him. Gov. Moore is what we all hoped a politician, a governor, and a civil servant would be. He’s the definition of ‘man of the people,’ and he’s not only the biggest hope Democrats have, but he’s the real hope this country has to right the ship.” United Negro College Fund President Michael Lomax also weighed in. “When our elected leaders not only talk the talk but also walk the walk, progress follows. Maryland Governor Wes Moore is doing just that,” Lomax said.
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The 2025 Masters highlighted golf’s evolving legacy—spotlighting Black pioneers, Augusta’s exclusivity, and a $140M economic impact—while diversity efforts continue to reshape the sport.
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | April 18, 2025
As the 89th Masters Tournament concluded Sunday, April 13, 2025, the storylines that emerged weren’t just about the iconic green jacket or record-breaking putts. Behind the meticulously groomed fairways of Augusta National Golf Club lies a deeper story—one that speaks to the history of exclusivity, the slow march toward diversity, and the staggering economic footprint of one of America’s most prestigious sporting events.
Black Golfers in America: Progress and Persistence
Golf in the United States is still largely dominated by white players, but Black athletes have made important strides—though the road remains steep. As of 2024, about 3% of the 28.1 million on-course golfers in the U.S. were Black, totaling roughly 843,000 players. This marks a decline from 1.1 million Black golfers in 2015, highlighting ongoing struggles with access, affordability, and representation.
Despite these challenges, a number of Black golfers have not only made it to the PGA Tour but also achieved remarkable success:
Charlie Sifford became the first African American to earn a PGA Tour card in 1961, later winning two events and earning a place in the World Golf Hall of Fame.
Pete Brown was the first Black golfer to win a PGA Tour event in 1964.
Lee Elder made history in 1975 as the first Black player to compete in the Masters Tournament.
Calvin Peete, known for his accuracy, won 12 PGA Tour events, including the 1985 Players Championship.
Jim Thorpe secured three PGA Tour wins and 13 on the Champions Tour.
Modern Black golfers continue to carry the torch:
Tiger Woods, with 82 PGA Tour wins and 15 majors, remains one of the most dominant and influential golfers of all time.
Harold Varner III made history as the first Black golfer to advance to the PGA Tour via the Web.com Tour.
Joseph Bramlett became the first Black player to graduate from PGA Tour Q-School since Tiger.
Cameron Champ, a rising star, is known for his long drives and advocacy for racial equity in the sport.
Cheyenne Woods, Tiger’s niece, has competed on the LPGA Tour and earned international victories.
Organizations like the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour are also working to provide competitive platforms for aspiring Black professionals, seeking to increase diversity at golf’s highest levels.
Inside Augusta National: Membership and Milestones
Perhaps no course is more symbolic of golf’s complex relationship with race than Augusta National Golf Club, home of the Masters since its debut in 1934. Known for its tightly guarded membership and tradition-heavy culture, the club did not admit its first Black member—Ron Townsend, a television executive—until 1990. This move came amid national pressure after a similar exclusion scandal at Alabama’s Shoal Creek Club drew widespread backlash.
Since then, Augusta has added other Black members, including Condoleezza Rice, who also broke barriers as one of the club’s first two female members in 2012, and former NFL great Lynn Swann. The exact number of Black members today remains confidential, in line with Augusta’s longstanding policy of secrecy. Still, reports suggest several African Americans now hold roles in membership and business operations.
Augusta’s exclusivity persists: membership is by invitation only, with estimated initiation fees between $100,000 and $300,000, and annual dues under $30,000. The club typically hosts around 300 members, often referred to as “green jackets.”
Masters Champions: Legends of the Tournament
In its 89-year history, only a few players have won the Masters multiple times—a rare achievement that cements their place in golf legend.
Jack Nicklaus leads with 6 victories (1963, 1965, 1966, 1972, 1975, 1986).
Tiger Woods, the most dominant Black golfer in history, has won 5 times (1997, 2001, 2002, 2005, 2019).
Arnold Palmer claimed 4 wins (1958, 1960, 1962, 1964).
Tiger Woods’ historic 1997 win not only redefined the sport but also symbolized a new chapter in its racial history. His enduring legacy continues to inspire young golfers of color across the globe.
The 2025 Masters added yet another chapter to the tournament’s historic legacy when Rory McIlroy won after a dramatic sudden-death playoff against Justin Rose. With the victory, McIlroy became the sixth player—and the first European—to complete the modern career Grand Slam, doing so on his 11th attempt. His long-awaited triumph underscored the global prestige of the Masters and highlighted how the event continues to shape the narratives of golf’s greatest champions.
By Milton Kirby East Lake Golf Course Atlanta, GA – Location of Ryder Cup 1963
The Masters and Georgia’s Economy: A Championship Boost
The Masters isn’t just a sporting event—it’s an economic juggernaut. Held each April, the tournament injects between $120 million and $140 million into Augusta’s local economy. From luxury rentals to booming restaurant business, the city transforms into a hub of global commerce during Masters Week.
Across Georgia, golf drives even larger gains. In 2022, the industry generated a $5.3 billion statewide economic impact, supporting over 55,000 jobs and contributing $2.7 billion in wages.
Hospitality rates spike dramatically during the tournament:
Hotel rates surge up to 800%, averaging $500 per night.
Local hotels generate about $26 million in revenue.
Short-term rentals average $5,300 per week, with some homeowners earning up to $28,000, often enough to pay a year’s mortgage.
Transportation sees a bump too. Augusta Regional Airport handles over 2,100 private flights during Masters Week—more than five times its normal daily volume.
And then there’s merchandise. Augusta National’s iconic shop generates an estimated $50 million in sales annually during the event, with items like Masters-themed gnomes becoming collector’s favorites.
The Legacy and the Future
Despite Augusta National’s secretive culture and its late adoption of inclusive practices, the club and the Masters remain fixtures in American sport and business. But the story of Black golfers—past, present, and future—is still being written.
The legacy of exclusion still casts a long shadow. Yet with champions like Tiger Woods, pioneers like Charlie Sifford and Lee Elder, and grassroots efforts like the APGA Tour pushing for change, the fairways are slowly becoming more welcoming.
Golf, like America, is a work in progress—full of tradition, potential, and the constant challenge to do better.
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NBA legend Bill Russell broke records and racial barriers—as a champion player, pioneering coach, and fearless civil rights activist. His impact still echoes today.
It happened in April 1966
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | April 19, 2025
William Felton Russell was more than a basketball legend—he was a trailblazer for justice, leadership, and a powerful image in sports and society.
Born on February 12, 1934, in Monroe, Louisiana, and raised in Oakland, California, Bill Russell rose to prominence at the University of San Francisco, where he led the Dons to two NCAA championships.
Bill Russell with Championship Rings
In 1956, he joined the Boston Celtics and forever changed the game of basketball.
Over 13 seasons, Russell led the Celtics to 11 NBA championships, the most by any player in league history. He was a five-time MVP, 12-time All-Star, and a gold medalist at the 1956 Olympics. Yet his influence reached far beyond the court.
Trailblazing Coach and Leader
On April 17, 1966, following the Celtics’ championship win and Red Auerbach’s retirement as head coach, Russell made history as the first Black head coach in NBA history. Appointed as a player-coach, he led the team while still anchoring the defense on the court. Under his guidance, the Celtics won two more NBA championships in 1968 and 1969.
After retiring from playing, Russell returned to coaching in May 1973, when he was hired to lead the Seattle SuperSonics. His tenure with the Sonics and later the Sacramento Kings marked a new chapter in his coaching legacy—bringing his wisdom and leadership beyond Boston.
Reflections from Teammates and Contemporaries
Russell’s impact on those around him is best reflected in the words of those who knew him best:
Don Nelson, former Celtics teammate, once said:
“There are two types of superstars. One makes himself look good at the expense of the other guys on the floor. But there’s another type who makes the players around him look better than they are, and that’s the type Russell was.”
John Havlicek, another Celtics great, recalled Russell’s intense focus:
“When it’s an important game or an important challenge for him—someone like Chamberlain, or someone coming up that everyone’s touting—the sound of Russell throwing up is a welcome sound, too, because it means he’s keyed up for the game, and around the locker room we grin and say, ‘Man, we’re going to be all right tonight.'”
Paul Pierce, former Celtics star, shared a more lighthearted memory:
“You know that infectious laugh that he had? He’d come in, give you the middle finger and start laughing. When he first did it to me, I was like, ‘Woah.’ And then I’d laugh, and that kind of brought the tension back down.” – NBC Sports Boston
Doc Rivers, former Celtics and current 76ers head coach, emphasized Russell’s trailblazing influence:
“Without Bill Russell, I’m not coaching.”
A Voice for Justice
Off the court, Russell was a fearless advocate for civil rights. He marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., stood beside Muhammad Ali in protest of the Vietnam War draft, and never shied away from confronting racism—even when it came from fans in his city.
His principled stance made him a powerful symbol of dignity, resistance, and moral leadership in sports. He understood the platform that came with greatness and used it to push for justice and equality.
Bill Russell receiving Presidential Medal of Freedom
Today, the NBA Finals MVP Award bears his name—a fitting tribute to a man who truly defined what it means to be most valuable. Russell’s legacy isn’t just in the record books. It lives in every athlete who uses their platform for justice, in every team that champions inclusion, and in every fan who believes sports can elevate society.
Russell once said, “What distinguishes a champion is not always winning, but rising each time you fall.”
And rise, he always did. Bill Russell remained a champion in every sense of the word on the court, on the sidelines, and in the fight for civil rights.
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Morehouse School of Medicine honors Calvin Smyre’s 51-year public service by dedicating the Calvin Smyre Education Conference Center during its 50th anniversary.
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | April 3, 2025
The longest-serving member of the Georgia House of Representatives, Calvin Smyre, received a lasting tribute to his decades of public service on Thursday, as Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM) dedicated a new education building in his name.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Calvin Smyre Education Conference Center (CSECC) was led by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. The event marked a highlight in MSM’s 50th anniversary celebration at the Georgia State Capitol and symbolized the institution’s ongoing commitment to health equity and diversity.
Photo by Milton Kirby Calvin Smyre
Smyre, a former state representative elected in 1974 and a key figure in Georgia politics, has long championed MSM since its inception. In his remarks, he recalled helping secure the institution’s initial $1 million in state funding, emphasizing the power of partnerships between government and education.
“This building is a permanent reminder of what vision, leadership, and dedication can achieve,” said Smyre, who also serves as Trustee Emeritus for the medical school and sits on several philanthropic and educational boards, including the Fort Valley State College Foundation and Piedmont HealthCare in Columbus.
Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice, President and CEO of MSM, served as emcee for the celebration. “Health equity is not a political term,” she said. “It’s about giving people what they need, when they need it, and in the amount they need to reach their best health outcomes.”
The CSECC, located on MSM’s campus at 720 Westview Drive SW, features an auditorium, conference and event rooms, study areas, and state-of-the-art technology to support the school’s growing academic and community initiatives. The building is designed to be multifunctional, with spaces that can transition from lecture halls to fine dining areas and networking hubs.
Arthur R. Collins, Chairman of MSM’s Board of Trustees, reflected on Smyre’s legacy: “We are not just honoring a legacy, we are not just honoring a life, we are not just honoring his spirit, —we are investing in what comes next.”
The day’s events were a part of MSM’s broader 50th anniversary celebration. Founded to diversify Georgia’s healthcare workforce, MSM remains one of the nation’s only historically Black medical schools. Since becoming independent in 1981, the school has graduated over 3,300 students, nearly 60% of whom continue to serve in Georgia.
Photo by Milton Kirby Andre Dickens
With the support of lawmakers like Smyre, the school plans to expand its graduating class to 225 students in the coming years. Morehouse School of Medicine Dean Joseph Tyndall and several state legislators also praised MSM’s enduring impact during the ceremony.
As the nation debates diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, MSM leaders say the school’s mission remains unwavering. “Trust is the foundation of the patient-provider relationship,” said Montgomery Rice. “And diversity in healthcare strengthens that trust.”
For Calvin Smyre, the new center stands not only as a personal honor but as a beacon for future generations. His life’s work—from the Georgia House floor to the boardrooms of educational institutions—continues to shape Georgia’s legacy of leadership, service, and social justice.
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Tuskegee Airmen Legacy Under Threat: Despite efforts to honor their memory, Black Air Force unit’s history is being erased under President Trump’s executive order, sparking bipartisan outrage and outrage from surviving airmen.
By Mead Gruver and Thomas Peipert | Aurora, CO (AP) | March 23, 2025
Col. James H. Harvey III, 101, is among the last few airmen and support crew who proved that a Black unit — the 332nd Fighter Group of the Tuskegee Airmen — could fight as well as any other in World War II and the years after.
Col James H Harvey III (AP)
He went on to become the first Black jet fighter pilot in Korean airspace during the Korean War, and a decorated one after 126 missions. He was one of four Tuskegee Airmen who won the first U.S. Air Force Gunnery Meet in 1949, a forerunner of today’s U.S. Navy “Top Gun” school.
“They said we didn’t have any ability to operate aircraft or operate heavy machinery. We were inferior to the white man. We were nothing,” Harvey said. “So we showed them.”
Shortly after Trump’s January inauguration, the Air Force removed new recruit training courses that included videos of the Tuskegee Airmen.
The removal drew bipartisan outrage and the White House’s ire over what Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described as “malicious implementation” of Trump’s executive order.
The Air Force quickly reversed course.
Announcing the reversal, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin said in a statement that the initial removal was because the service, like other agencies, had to move swiftly to comply with Trump’s executive order with “no equivocation, no slow-rolling, no foot-dragging.”
The videos were shown to troops as part of DEI courses taken during basic military training. Some photos of Tuskegee Airmen were also among tens of thousands of images in a Pentagon database flagged for removal.
“I thought there was progress in that area, but evidently there isn’t,” said Harvey, who blamed Trump for contributing to what he sees as worsening prejudice in the U.S.
“I’ll tell him to his face. No problem,” he said. “I’ll tell him, ‘You’re a racist,’ and see what he has to say about that. What can they do to me? Just kill me, that’s all.”
The Tuskegee Airmen unit was established in 1941 as the 99th Pursuit Squadron based at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. The 99th became the 332nd Fighter Group, which by war’s end destroyed or damaged more than 400 enemy aircraft in North Africa and Europe during the war and sank a German destroyer in action.
Of the 992 Tuskegee Airmen trained as pilots starting in 1942, 335 were deployed, 66 were killed in action and 32 who were shot down became war prisoners.
In 1949, two months after the airmen’s gunnery meet victory in the propeller-driven class, the U.S. Air Force integrated Black and white troops and the Tuskegee Airmen were absorbed into other units.
It took the Air Force almost half a century to recognize 332nd’s last achievement: Its success in aerial bombing and shooting proficiency in the gunnery meet at what is now Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.
For decades, the winners were listed as “unknown” and their trophy was missing.
“We won them all,” Harvey said. “We weren’t supposed to win anything because of the color of our skin.”
Harvey trained during World War II but was not deployed to combat before the war ended. In Korea, he flew the F-80 Shooting Star jet fighter and earned medals including the Distinguished Flying Cross.
He retired as a lieutenant colonel in 1965 and received an honorary promotion to colonel in 2023.
Trump in 2020 promoted another of the last surviving Tuskegee Airmen, Charles McGee, to brigadier general. McGee died in 2022 at age 102.
Harvey still regards the Air Force Gunnery Meet as his biggest accomplishment, one the Air Force finally recognized in 1993.
Their missing trophy was found in a museum storeroom not long after.
“We were good, and they couldn’t take it away from us,” Harvey said. “We were good. And I’ll repeat it until I die.”
60th Anniversary of Selma to Montgomery March: Thousands Gather to Honor Foot Soldiers and Fight for Voting Rights. Inspirational speeches and reflections on the past, present, and future of American equality and justice were shared by prominent leaders and a 7th-grade foot soldier from 1965.
By Christopher Young
Where to even begin? So many in our country want to erase the truth. They are employing a sinful revisionist history. How in God’s world can they look in the mirror? The sacrifice of the foot soldiers on March 7, 1965, cannot and will never be erased, revised, or forgotten. Thank God for television. The whole world saw the vicious and bloody assaults at the hands of white Alabama State Troopers and others, upon innocent non-violent African-American marchers seeking the equality inherent in the right to vote. It is American history that the march from Selma to Montgomery (March 7-25, 1965) galvanized American’s support for the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The Edmund Pettus Bridge – a bridge named after a Confederate Brigadier General, Grand Dragon of the Alabama Ku Klux Klan, and U.S. Senator – will forever be remembered.
By Christopher Young – Edmund Pettus Bridge
Sixty years later, on Sunday, March 9, 2025, under overcast skies with just an occasional drop or two of rain, an estimated 15,000 people gathered to remember that historic day and those foot soldiers – their unyielding determination and courage playing out in a racist America – remembering the price that is never ever marked as ‘paid-in-full’ in our country.
On Sunday, there was no massive security operation, no metal detectors to pass through, no snipers on rooftops adjacent to the foot of the bridge where long speeches are normally provided during Democratic administrations. When there is no president or vice president in attendance, all those things go by the wayside where the bridge crosses the mighty Alabama River in the town of Selma, Alabama. A town with a population of 17,971 per the 2020 Census, where 81.2% of population are African American, and 28.3% live in poverty.
The mood on the bridge this year expressed the full-range of emotions of We the People – from tears of joy to tears of anguish that the fight is never finished. Scores of faces were lined with seriousness, reverence, determination and awe – akin to a pilgrimage. By guesstimate, a solid 20% of marchers were age 21 and below.
By Christopher Young – Alabama-Troopers-Shuford-James
This year there were some speeches on the other side of the bridge. Reverend Jesse Jackson was pushed in a wheelchair. Reverend Al Sharpton is always there. Others included NAACP President Derrick Johnson, National Urban League President Marc Morial, President of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation Dr. Melanie L. Campbell, Selma Mayor James Perkins, Jr., Alabama Representative Terri Sewell (Selma native), House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Representative Maxine Waters, Rev. Senator Raphael G. Warnock, Alabama 2nd District Rep.
Shomari Figures, D-Mobile, reminded that “in two years we can make liars out of all those people who say we don’t vote,” Dr. Benjamin J. Chavis, Jr. – president & CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, i.e. The Black Press, Bobby Henry – chairman of the Board of The Black Press, Reverend Mark Thompson – NNPA’s Global Digital Transformation director, and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, a Democrat, who spoke in favor of DEI, “…sixty years ago marchers were met by an Alabama governor full of hate and ignorance…I believe that diversity is a strength and never a weakness. I know we’ve got a lot more marching to go. If you’ll have me, I’ll be there every step of the way…”
“No Justice – No Peace” call and response was heard often, and a group of young people – Black Men & Women Live, from Atlanta, Georgia, chanted, “I am a link in this chain, and it will not break here.” Singing was heard throughout Broad Street leading up to the bridge, and included, We Shall Overcome and Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around.
The Mississippi Link newspaper was privileged to meet with Reverend Dave Fulford (pictured above), a foot soldier still in the 7th grade and at the back of line with the other children on March 7, 1965, in one of his offices a couple miles from the bridge, just 90 minutes before he was due at the foot of the bridge to be part of the first wave to cross this year. He stressed the importance of education and hard work. He rose through the ranks at IBM to supervise projects in numerous countries. After retiring, he moved back to Alabama and started a non-profit – Blackbelt & Central Alabama Housing Authority that helps low-income families, seniors and veterans with housing issues, repairs, food, and health information. He continues service as executive director.
By Christopher Young – Dr.-Benjamin-J.-Chavis-Jr.-Reverend-Mark-Thompson
Additionally, he serves as pastor of Camden Mission Seven Day Adventist Church in Camden, Alabama.
Reverend Fulford shared some of his family and educational background and values. “We were taught as children to respect our country and stand up for what is right, liberty, and that all men are created equal. The other foot soldiers gave me a reason to live. We have lost our way as a country. Even here in Selma…black on black crime…we sacrificed so much and were living in deplorable housing…the leadership is appalling when you see what could be done and is not being done.”
What will you say to the readers of The Mississippi Link newspaper about these times we are in now after you have given everything in you to push forward and now, we are being pushed backward? “When I see what’s going on, I’m praying ‘Lord please help America to get back on track.’ One thing, in our nation, I believe in the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and everything that we stood for as a country is now being changed.
“The removal of DEI is awful…IBM saw the value of it…when I see what’s going on in America today, I just ask God to please help America to go back to when all men were created equal. Many people are losing their jobs, and grants. I write a lot of grants. That’s what I do for housing, and I don’t know what’s going to happen, so I just say Lord please help America, and the last thing I’ll say – one of our most powerful weapons that we have as Americans is vote, vote, vote. One person, one vote, is a powerful weapon.”
The Dred Scott v. Sandford case, culminating in a Supreme Court ruling on March 6, 1857, denied freedom to Dred Scott and ruled African Americans could not be U.S. citizens. This decision invalidated the Missouri Compromise and intensified national tensions over slavery, fueling the path to the Civil War and inspiring the abolitionist movement.
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | March 6, 2025
One of the most significant legal battles in American history unfolded in St. Louis’ Old Courthouse, where Dred Scott and his wife, Harriet, fought for their freedom from enslavement. The landmark Supreme Court decision in Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857) not only denied their freedom but also ruled that African Americans could not be U.S. citizens and that Congress had no authority to prohibit slavery in federal territories. This ruling invalidated the Missouri Compromise of 1820 and pushed the nation closer to the Civil War.
Dred Scott’s Journey to the Courtroom
Dred Scott was born into enslavement in Virginia around 1799 and later moved with his enslavers, the Blow family, to St. Louis in 1830. Financial difficulties forced the Blows to sell Scott to Dr. John Emerson, a military surgeon. Scott accompanied Emerson to free territories—Illinois and the Wisconsin Territory—where slavery was prohibited under the Missouri Compromise.
During this time, Scott married Harriet Robinson, who was also enslaved. The couple had two daughters, Eliza and Lizzie. After Dr. Emerson died in 1843, his widow, Irene Emerson, continued to profit from their forced labor, hiring them out to other families.
Courtesy – Britannica – Dred Scott
In 1846, Scott took legal action, suing Irene Emerson for his freedom. The case, filed in the Old Courthouse, was based on the legal precedent that an enslaved person who had lived in a free territory was entitled to freedom. With the support of abolitionist allies and financial backing from the Blow family, Scott embarked on an eleven-year legal battle that would reach the highest Court in the land.
The Supreme Court’s Ruling and Its Fallout
On March 6, 1857, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7-2 against Scott. The Court, led by Chief Justice Roger B. Taney, declared that African Americans, whether free or enslaved, could not be U.S. citizens and therefore had no right to sue in Federal Court. Moreover, the ruling struck down the Missouri Compromise, stating that Congress had no power to prohibit slavery in U.S. territories.
The Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States (Artist: George P.A. Healy)
Taney actually freed the enslaved people that he had inherited; however, he believed that the Federal government had no right to limit slavery. He mistakenly thought he could save the Union when he ruled that the Framers of the Constitution believed enslaved people were so inferior that they possessed no legal rights.
Chief Justice Taney held the Missouri Compromise unconstitutional, claiming that as property, enslaved people were protected under Article V. In addition to this unpopular opinion, Taney became even more disliked when he challenged President Lincoln’s constitutional authority to apply certain emergency measures during the Civil War. Lincoln saw him as an enemy and even defied one of Taney’s judicial decisions. Despite his critics, Taney served until he died on October 12, 1864, at the age of 87, after being Chief Justice for 28 years.
This decision deepened the nation’s divide over slavery, further fueling tensions that would lead to the Civil War. Though Scott lost his case, his courage in seeking justice contributed to the broader movement for abolition.
The Missouri Compromise and Its Repeal
Scott’s case directly challenged the Missouri Compromise (also known as the Compromise of 1820) which was, Federal legislation of the United States that balanced northern states’ desires to prevent slavery in the country with those of southern states to expand it. It admitted Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state and declared a policy of prohibiting slavery in the remaining Louisiana Purchase lands north of the 36th parallel. The 16th United States Congress passed the legislation on March 3, 1820, and President James Monroe signed it into law on March 6, 1820.
The Missouri Compromise was a critical effort to prevent the nation from fracturing over slavery, but it was repealed in 1854 by the Kansas-Nebraska Act, which allowed territories to decide the issue of slavery through popular sovereignty. The Supreme Court’s ruling in Dred Scott v. Sandford further dismantled any legal barriers to slavery’s expansion, emboldening pro-slavery factions and enraging abolitionists.
Legacy of the Dred Scott Case
Though the Supreme Court denied Scott’s plea for freedom, his case became a turning point in American history. The ruling heightened national tensions and galvanized anti-slavery forces, accelerating the path to the American Civil War. In 1857, Scott and his family were eventually freed by Taylor Blow, a member of his original enslaver’s family. Tragically, Scott died just a year later.
Dred and Harriet Scott’s determination to fight for their freedom stands as a testament to the resilience of those who resisted enslavement. Their struggle helped shape the national debate over slavery and ultimately contributed to the Union’s commitment to ending the institution once and for all.
The Union won the American Civil War. The war effectively ended in April 1865 when Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered his troops to Union General Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox Court House in Virginia.
Carter Godwin Woodson, known as the Father of Black History, was a pioneering historian, author, journalist, and educator who dedicated his life to documenting and promoting African American history.
By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | February 4, 2025
Carter Godwin Woodson, known as the “Father of Black History,” was a pioneering historian, author, journalist, and educator who dedicated his life to documenting and promoting African American history. Born on December 19, 1875, in New Canton, Virginia, Woodson’s work laid the foundation for studying and recognizing Black history in the United States.
A Scholar and Educator
Woodson’s academic career was characterized by tenacity and excellence. He attended Lincoln University in Pennsylvania and Berea College in Kentucky before earning his doctorate from Harvard University, becoming the second African American to do so after W.E.B. Du Bois. He later served as the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Howard University, where he emphasized the value of Black scholarship. Woodson taught in both public and collegiate settings, trained researchers and staff members, and authored numerous books and articles on Black history. From 1919 to 1920, he also served as the Dean of the School of Liberal Arts and Head of the Graduate Faculty at Howard University.
Courtesy Smithsonian
Founding the Study of Black History
In 1915, Woodson founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) to promote research and education on Black heritage. He also established the Associated Publishers, a company dedicated to publishing works by and about African Americans. From his home in Washington, D.C.’s Shaw neighborhood, he led ASALH’s initiatives and wrote extensively on Black history, including managing The Journal of Negro History (now The Journal of African American History).
Woodson’s efforts to establish African American history as an essential part of the larger American narrative extended beyond his organizations and publications. His work inspired educators nationwide to incorporate Black history into their curricula, and many sought his advice and resources for classroom use.
The Birth of Black History Month
In 1926, Woodson launched Negro History Week to highlight the contributions of Black Americans. He selected the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass (February 14) and Abraham Lincoln (February 12). Over time, this observance gained nationwide recognition and expanded into Black History Month, which was officially designated by the U.S. government in 1976. President Gerald Ford urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans.”
A Lasting Legacy
Woodson spent the last 28 years of his life in his Washington, D.C., home, where he continued his research and advocacy until his passing on April 3, 1950, at the age of 74. Recognizing his immense contributions, President Barack Obama designated the Carter G. Woodson Home as a National Historic Site in 2016. Located at 1538 Ninth Street NW, this site is preserved by the National Park Service as a testament to his legacy.
The Importance of the Carter G. Woodson Home
Woodson’s historic home functioned as the headquarters for ASALH and played a crucial role in advancing Black history education. From this location, he:
Researched and wrote groundbreaking works on African American history
Managed The Journal of Negro History
Planned the first Negro History Week, which later evolved into Black History Month
Led efforts to promote Black scholarship and education
The Ongoing Celebration of Black History
Today, Black History Month is celebrated in the United States and Canada (February), the United Kingdom (October), and other countries. Each year, ASALH selects a theme for the month, and the 2025 theme, “African Americans and Labor,” highlights Black workers’ contributions to labor movements and industries. Schools, institutions, and organizations continue to honor Woodson’s vision by integrating Black history into their curricula and programs year-round.
Recognizing Woodson’s Impact
Woodson’s dedication to preserving and teaching Black history ensured that African Americans’ achievements would no longer be overlooked. His legacy lives on through the work of ASALH, the continued observance of Black History Month, and the recognition of African American contributions across multiple sectors. Thanks to his efforts, the study of Black history has become an essential part of American education and culture.
As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor Carter G. Woodson’s vision and commitment to historical truth, education, and cultural preservation. His pioneering work remains a cornerstone of African American history and a testament to the power of knowledge in shaping a more inclusive society.
Mentoring and Training
Woodson was a mentor to many up-and-coming historians and scholars, including Alrutheus A. Taylor, Charles H. Wesley, Luther Porter Jackson, Lorenzo Johnston Greene, Rayford W. Logan, Lawrence D. Reddick, and John Hope Franklin. The association’s headquarters—Woodson’s home—served as a training center where these scholars refined their research skills and, in turn, mentored succeeding generations of African American historians. Woodson and ASALH also cultivated important relationships with Black churches, colleges, universities, schools, and community centers nationwide.
The article discusses the significance of diversity in the NFL, highlighting the historic achievement of Black quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts leading their teams to the Super Bowl. It reflects on the discrimination faced by past players like Jimmy Raye and emphasizes the importance of diversity for success in sports and society.
By A.R. Shaw | Atlanta, GA | January 27, 2025
What would the Super Bowl be without diversity?
Imagine if Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes and Philadelphia Eagles’ Jalen Hurts were labeled “DEI hires,” a term used by some political figures and organizations to undermine the true achievements of embracing diversity.
Mahomes and Hurts prove how much diversity matters by leading their teams back to the Super Bowl, establishing a rematch of the only two Black quarterbacks to face-off in the big game.
Courtesy NFL – Jalen Hurts
But there was a time in sports when Black quarterbacks were not provided equal opportunities to lead on the professional level.
Two years ago when Mahomes and Hurts led their teams to the 2023 Super Bowl in Arizona, former Michigan State University quarterback Jimmy Raye made the trip to witness history and premiere the NFL-produced film, “The Indelible Legacy of Jimmy Raye.”
Raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina during the height of segregation in the 1950s and ’60s, Raye became a standout quarterback in high school and went on to become one of the first Black players to start at the position for a Division 1 college football.
In 1966, Raye became the first Black starting quarterback at Michigan State University. He was also the first Black quarterback from the South to win a national title. Although Raye proved that he could play quarterback on the highest level in college, he was not given the opportunity to play the position in the NFL. Instead, he was converted to defensive back where he would endure a career-ending injury.
Raye faced the discrimination that prevented numerous Black quarterbacks from gaining opportunities at the professional level.
Courtesy NFL – Patrick Mahomes
The implementation of discriminatory practices in pro football began after Fritz Pollard became the first Black NFL quarterback in 1923 for the Hammond Pros. In 1933, league owners agreed to ban Black players from leading as quarterbacks. The following year, there were no Black players in the NFL for the first time in its 14-year history. The ban on Black quarterbacks lasted until 1946.
But while the ban was lifted in the 1940s, there were very few starting Black quarterbacks as the league gained more exposure during the 1960s. Raye never got the opportunity to prove himself at quarterback as he did at Michigan State University, but he cheered on other Black quarterbacks who excelled in the 1970s and ’80s such as Joe Gilliam, James Harris, Warren Moon, and Randall Cunningham.
Doug Williams would make history in 1987 by becoming the first Black quarterback to win a Super Bowl. In 2014, Russell Wilson became the second Black quarterback to win the big game.
“When Doug Williams won the MVP in the Super Bowl, I was thrilled,” Raye shared with me during the week of the 2023 Super Bowl. “And when Tony Dungy and Lovie Smith coached against each other as the first two Black head coaches in the Super Bowl, we were making progress. And then as the numbers increased with the number of Black quarterbacks in the league, it was inevitable that we would get two starting in the Super Bowl. And the same thing would be true if coaches were given the opportunity. Not denied. Given the opportunity for a more level playing field in the National Football League.”
Creating a level playing field was the objective of diversity, equality, and inclusion from sports to business and political sectors. It attempted to provide space for candidates of diverse backgrounds to be given opportunities that were historically denied. The new administration’s attack on diversity initiatives has also led to several corporate entities following suit. However, an attack on diversity is an attack on the fabric of true American values of equality. It’s a bold attempt to stand on the wrong side of history.
In an alternate time period, Mahomes and Hurts would have never gotten a chance to lead their teams to the Super Bowl. However, we are all in danger of entering a time period when qualified candidates could face legalized discrimination because “DEI” has been shifted into a negative term. But diversity leads to overall success.
The World Economic Forum’s report “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 4.0” revealed that companies with diverse employees have “up to 20% higher rate of innovation and 19% higher innovation revenues.”
In sports, the impact of diversity continues to serve as a key example of its overall success.
I spoke with Hurts during the 2023 Super Bowl who shared his thoughts on the importance of being a part of history.
“It’s a historic moment,” Hurts shared with me. “To everyone who laid the foundation before me, it’s transcending. Something so historic, it’s a big deal because no one is used to it. It’s good to be an encouragement to anyone watching, knowing it can be done. I think it’s an opportunity to honor all of the Black quarterbacks before me. It’s encouraging to the future. There are a lot of kids who have aspirations to play the position. People may tell them that they can’t do it, but they can. If you’re determined to do something, nothing worthy having comes easy. Believe in yourself and keep fighting.”
In two weeks, Hurts and Mahomes will prove, again, the power of diversity. We can only hope political leaders will take heed as the fight for equality continues.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. African-American Rodeo of Champions took place on January 20, 2025, in Denver, celebrating Black Western culture. The event, organized by BPIR, showcased impressive rodeo performances before over 6,000 spectators and awarded scholarships to students, honoring the legacy of Black cowboys and cowgirls in American history.
By Milton Kirby | Denver, CO | January 23, 2025
The spirit of the Wild West came alive at the Martin Luther King, Jr. African-American Rodeo of Champions, held on January 20, 2025, at Denver’s historic Coliseum. Organized by the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo (BPIR) in conjunction with the National Western Stock Show, the event celebrated the rich heritage of Black cowboys and cowgirls while showcasing their extraordinary talent in the rodeo arena.
The inaugural Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo started in 1984 in Denver, CO, was inspired by the vision of its creator, Lu Vason, who drew upon his experience at Wyoming’s renowned Cheyenne Frontier Days. Vason’s quest to honor the legacy of Black cowboys led him to the Black American West Museum of History in Denver, where he discovered the story of Bill Pickett, a legendary cowboy and rodeo innovator. Today, the BPIR stands as a testament to that legacy, drawing thousands of attendees annually.
More than 6,000 spectators packed the Historic Denver Coliseum this year to witness thrilling competitions and celebrate Black Western culture. Distinguished guests included U.S. Representative Jason Crow, Colorado State Senate President James Coleman, Senator Tony Exum, and Representative Dr. Vern Howard, Chairman of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Commission.
The rodeo featured a lineup of electrifying events, with standout performances from top competitors:
Courtesy – BPIR – Kevin Carmon
Ranch Bronc Riding: Marcus Verser (Spencer, OK) took first place with a 70-point ride.
Steer Wrestling: Kevin Carmon (Beaumont, TX) secured victory with an impressive 3.66-second run.
Team Roping: Ashton Semien (Beaumont, TX) and Isaac King (Natchez, MS) led the field with a 13.56-second time.
Ladies Steer Undecorating: Niya Bryant (Huntsville, TX) dominated the event with a 2.01-second run.
Tie-Down Roping: Richard Coleman (Wharton, TX) claimed the title with an 8.78-second performance.
Ladies Breakaway Roping: Niya Bryant (Huntsville, TX) added another win with a 3.68-second run.
Ladies Barrel Racing: Paris Wilburd (Cabot, AR) dazzled the audience with a 15.132-second time.
Jr Barrel Racing: Josephine Gajewski (Billings, MT) earned first place with a time of 16.197 seconds.
Pee Wee Barrels: Kendall Henderson (Beggs, OK) thrilled fans with a 17.091-second performance.
Bull Riding: Anthony Smith Jr. (Houston, TX) delivered an electrifying 84-point ride.
In addition to the action-packed competition, the BPIR Foundation awarded scholarships, fee grants, and book stipends to six deserving students, supporting their academic and rodeo aspirations:
Jordyn Love (Lu Vason Founder Scholarship): A sophomore at Fort Valley State University majoring in Animal Science with a 4.0 GPA in the honors program.
Savannah Roberts (Lu Vason Founder Scholarship): A senior at Colorado Virtual Academy, set to study Animal Science and Agricultural Business at South Plains College.
Haley Mason (Denver Regional Scholarship): An aspiring nursing student accepted at Chamberlain University and an active BPIR member.
Asha Gidden (Book Scholarship): A graduating senior planning to pursue Environmental Engineering and Microbiology at an HBCU.
Sedgwick Haynes Memorial Calf Roping Fee Grants: Awarded to Lindon Demery and Jermaine Walker, Jr.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. African-American Rodeo of Champions is more than just a celebration of rodeo skills—it’s a cultural cornerstone that honors the significant contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls to the history of the American West. This annual gathering continues to inspire new generations while fostering appreciation for the enduring traditions of the Black Western community.
Horace Henry, an unexpected photographer, captured pivotal moments at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s first memorial service, leading to his book “One Day in January.” Despite initial setbacks, his photographs are now part of the Smithsonian’s collection, reflecting his passion and perseverance in both photography and music throughout his career.
A Conversation with Horace Henry – Author of One Day In January
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | January 20, 2025
When Horace Henry talks about that fateful day, his eyes light up, and a warm smile spreads across his face. “It was divine intervention,” he says. Horace had never even considered photography until his brother, Dillard Henry, then serving in the U.S. Air Force in Vietnam, sent him a camera. That single act set the stage for a remarkable journey.
Photo by Milton Kirby
Horace was a music major at Clark College (now Clark Atlanta University) with no plans to pursue photography. But once the Yashica camera arrived, he began carrying it everywhere. Soon, he became known across campus as “The Man with the Camera.”
A Day That Changed Everything
Horace vividly recalls January 15, 1969, the day he attended Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s first memorial service at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. Armed with his camera and two rolls of film, he set out with a group of friends. Upon arrival, Horace found himself separated from his companions and unexpectedly guided by an older woman to the front of the church. There, he captured history in the making among seasoned journalists and photographers.
“I took two rolls of film—48 exposures—and when the film was developed, I had 43 good shots,” he recounts. For a beginner photographer, it was an extraordinary feat. Horace preserved those negatives, which would later form the foundation of his book, One Day in January: A Collection of Images Taken at Dr. King’s First Memorial Service.
From Palmetto to the Smithsonian
Horace grew up in Palmetto, Georgia, a small town in Fulton County. His family rarely ventured into Atlanta, which felt like worlds away. Despite a modest upbringing, Horace’s determination propelled him into extraordinary opportunities.
In 2011, after publishing his book, Horace contacted the Smithsonian Institution, hoping to donate his collection. Initially met with polite rejection, he persisted, emphasizing that he possessed original negatives of the service. This time, the Smithsonian listened. Dr. Jacquelyn Days Serwer, Chief Curator of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, travelled to Atlanta, GA and personally inspected his photographs.
She told him, “Mr. Henry, the Smithsonian would love to have these photographs.” Today, his images are part of the museum’s permanent collection, preserving a pivotal moment in history.
A Career Beyond the Lens
Photography wasn’t Horace’s only passion. He was also a talented musician, performing with The Chapparrals, a popular band in the 1970s. They shared stages with Sly & The Family Stone, The Hues Corporation, Marvin Gaye, The Ohio Players, and Mandrill, touring iconic venues like Radio City Music Hall.
Still, photography remained a constant in his life. He honed his skills through correspondence courses with the New York Institute of Photography and the Seattle FilmWorks Home Study Course. Still, it was hands-on practice—and many mistakes—that shaped his expertise.
Moments That Mattered
One of Horace’s most cherished photographs captures C.T. Vivian speaking to a young Senator Barack Obama before he became President. The image at Wheat Street Baptist Church represents the trust and access Horace earned over decades of work.
Photo by Milton Kirby – Horace Henry with his photo of C T Vivian advising Barack Obama located at Pascal’s Atlanta
“I felt an incredible sense of honor to be chosen to document that moment,” he recalls.
When asked how he determines what to photograph, Horace emphasizes respect and intuition. “I never photograph people eating with their eyes closed or in unflattering poses,” he says.
Reflections and Legacy
Looking back, Horace credits much of his success to his ability to adapt. Whether directing civil rights leaders for a photo or navigating a music career, his focus was always on capturing moments with integrity.
As for his future, Horace remains committed to telling stories through his lens. “My job as a photographer is to place the piece in front of the audience and allow them to interpret it in their own way.”
From humble beginnings to Smithsonian recognition, Horace Henry’s journey is a testament to the passion, perseverance, and the power of a single photograph to change the world.
Today marks the anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birth. Celebrated for his transformative role in the Civil Rights Movement, he advocated nonviolent resistance, leading notable actions that resulted in significant legislative reforms and enduring social change.
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA January 15, 2025
Today marks the anniversary of the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., one of the most transformative figures in American history. Born Michael Luther King on January 15, 1929, in Atlanta, Georgia, he later adopted the name Martin, aligning with his lifelong mission inspired by faith and justice.
Early Life and Education
From a young age, Martin Luther King Jr. displayed remarkable intellect and drive. Skipping the 9th and 12th grades, he entered Morehouse College at just 15 years old and earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology by 19. Despite his precocious achievements, his life was not without hardship. At the age of 12, devastated by the death of his grandmother, he leaped from a second-story window in despair. Thankfully, he survived the fall, and this moment became part of the complex journey that shaped his character and resilience. This event is often mentioned to highlight the emotional struggles he faced in his early years before becoming the renowned leader of the Civil Rights Movement.
Path to Leadership
King’s upbringing in a deeply religious family, with his father and grandfather serving as Baptist ministers, instilled in him a sense of justice and faith. He was exposed to the inequities of segregation from a young age and was taught the value of standing up against injustice.
Martin Luther King Jr. became involved in the Civil Rights Movement through a combination of personal conviction, religious leadership, and circumstances that thrust him into the forefront of the struggle for racial equality.
His academic journey further shaped his thinking. While studying at Morehouse College, Crozer Theological Seminary, and Boston University, he encountered writings on nonviolence, particularly those of Mahatma Gandhi, which deeply influenced his philosophy of peaceful resistance.
In 1954, at the age of 25, King became the pastor of Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. It was here that he stepped into the national spotlight, leading the Montgomery Bus Boycott after Rosa Parks’ arrest in 1955. Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on the bus to a white passenger.
Courtesy – The National Civil Rights Museum
King was chosen as the leader and spokesperson for the newly formed Montgomery Improvement Association due to his strong oratory skills, respected position in the community, and relatively new arrival in Montgomery, which allowed him to avoid being tainted by local political divisions.
The boycott lasted over a year and ended with a Supreme Court decision declaring segregation on public buses unconstitutional. This success brought King national recognition as a leader of the Civil Rights Movement.
The Civil Rights Movement
In 1957, King co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), amplifying his efforts to challenge racial injustice across the South. Through campaigns in Birmingham, Selma, and beyond, King’s nonviolent approach achieved significant victories, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
King’s commitment to nonviolent resistance as a means of achieving social and political change was central to his leadership. He believed that love, justice, and moral authority could overcome hate and injustice.
King played pivotal roles in key events, such as the March on Washington in 1963, where he delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, and the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965, which led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act.
King’s leadership in the Civil Rights Movement was marked by his ability to inspire and mobilize people through his powerful speeches and unwavering commitment to justice. His efforts led to significant legislative and social changes, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Photo by Milton Kirby – The Lorraine Motel
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was shot while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, where he was staying during a visit to support striking sanitation workers. The tragic event occurred just as King was leading efforts for economic justice and workers’ rights. His death sparked widespread mourning and further galvanized the Civil Rights Movement.
A Legacy Memorialized
The quest to make Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday a national holiday was primarily championed by Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King Jr.’s widow, along with other civil rights leaders and activists. After her husband’s assassination in 1968, Coretta Scott King worked tirelessly to ensure that his legacy and contributions to civil rights were officially recognized by the federal government.
In 1979, she and other advocates began a campaign to establish a national holiday in honor of King. This effort gained widespread support over the years, and it was introduced in Congress by Rep. John Conyers and Senator Edward Kennedy.
It wasn’t until 1983 that President Ronald Reagan signed the legislation into law, officially designating Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a national holiday, which was first observed on January 20, 1986. However, it wasn’t immediately recognized by all states; it took several years for all states to adopt the holiday, with South Carolina being the last to officially recognize it in 2000.
Courtesy National Civil Rights Museum – Jesse Jackson, Martin Luther King, Jr. & Ralph David Abernathy
Family and Legacy
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife, Coretta Scott King, had four children:
Yolanda Denise King (1955–2007) – The eldest child, Yolanda was an actress, public speaker, and advocate for social justice.
Martin Luther King III (born 1957) – The eldest son, Martin Luther King III is an activist and community leader, having served as president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC).
Dexter Scott King (1961 – 2024) – The second son, Dexter was an activist and former president of the King Center, an organization dedicated to promoting the principles of nonviolence and advancing civil rights.
Bernice Albertine King (born 1963) – The youngest child, Bernice is an ordained minister and has been a prominent advocate for social justice and human rights. She is currently the CEO of the King Center.
The King Papers Project
During his lifetime, King wrote numerous letters, speeches and sermons. These documents are infamously called “The King Papers.”
The King Papers Project was initiated by the King Center and the Stanford University King Institute, and its goal is to publish a complete and accessible record of Dr. King’s life and contributions.
The project includes several volumes that span Dr. King’s life, beginning from his early years as a student and continuing through his leadership in the civil rights movement and his tragic assassination in 1968. These volumes contain not only his most famous speeches and writings but also personal correspondence, planning documents, and writings that provide insight into his thinking and strategic approach to issues like racism, social justice, and nonviolence.
In addition to the printed volumes, the King Papers also include digitized materials, which are available for public access and research. This collection is invaluable for scholars, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the full scope of Dr. King’s thoughts, actions, and impact on the civil rights movement and beyond.
Exploring His Life and Work
The story of Dr. King’s life can be found and studied a number of museums around the country including but not limited to:
1. The National Civil Rights Museum (Memphis, Tennessee)
The National Civil Rights Museum is located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. King was assassinated in 1968. The museum offers an extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia presentations documenting the American civil rights movement, including a significant focus on Dr. King’s leadership. Visitors can see items related to his life and activism, including his famous speeches and personal items.
2. The King Center (Atlanta, Georgia)
The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta includes the King Center, which was founded by Dr. King’s widow, Coretta Scott King. The King Center houses exhibits about Dr. King’s life, his philosophy of nonviolence, and the broader civil rights movement. The Ebenezer Baptist Church, where Dr. King preached, is also part of the park, and the Freedom Hall within the King Center contains artifacts such as his Nobel Peace Prize.
2. The National Center for Civil and Human Rights (Atlanta, Georgia)
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights isone of the most magnificent places to not just learn about the Civil Rights Movement but to actually experience it yourself. Sit at the lunch counter exhibit and see, hear and feel what you may have experienced if you had been a protestor at one of the many sit-ins throughout the South. This museum is home to some of the most dramatic, sobering, and incredibly realistic exhibits on the Civil Rights Era.
3. The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, D.C.)
The National Museum of African American History and Culture at the Smithsonian features extensive exhibits on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement. Items from his life, including his Bible, robes, and other personal artifacts, are displayed. His leadership and influence in the movement are detailed through interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations.
4. The Civil Rights Memorial Center (Montgomery, Alabama)
The Civil Rights Memorial Center, operated by the Southern Poverty Law Center, commemorates the lives of individuals who died during the Civil Rights Movement, including Dr. King. The Civil Rights Memorial, designed by architect Maya Lin, features a reflective surface inscribed with the names of martyrs, including Dr. King. The museum has exhibits on King’s life, his commitment to nonviolence, and his impact on civil rights.
5. The Alabama State Capitol (Montgomery, Alabama)
While not a traditional museum, the Alabama State Capitol is historically significant in the context of the civil rights movement. It was the site of the Selma to Montgomery marches, and there are exhibits within the Capitol and nearby museums that reflect on Dr. King’s leadership during this pivotal moment in history.
6. The Library of Congress (Washington, D.C.)
The Library of Congress holds a large collection of materials related to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., including manuscripts, letters, and papers. The library often showcases exhibitions about his life and work, and many of his speeches and writings are accessible through their online archives.
7. The Detroit Historical Museum (Detroit, Michigan)
The Detroit Historical Museum features exhibits about the history of the Civil Rights Movement, including a section dedicated to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his connection to the struggles for equality in Detroit and the broader U.S.
8. The Boston University Mugar Memorial Library (Boston, Massachusetts)
The Boston University Mugar Memorial Library holds the Martin Luther King Jr. Papers Project archives. This extensive collection includes Dr. King’s writings, speeches, and letters, which are essential resources for understanding his thoughts.
As we commemorate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on what would have been his 96th birthday, his message of love, equality, and nonviolent resistance remains as relevant as ever.
President Biden’s historic 40th Black female judge, Tiffany Rene Johnson, was confirmed to the federal bench, tying the record for most Black lifetime judges confirmed during a presidency.
By Gerren Keith Gaynor – TheGrio | December 10, 2024
President Joe Biden marked yet another historic moment for his administration in his final days in office on Monday when the U.S. Senate confirmed his 40th Black female judge to the federal bench.
As part of an effort to seat as many federal judges before President-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House on Jan. 20, the Senate confirmed Tiffany Rene Johnson to serve on the Northern District of Georgia. Judge Johnson is only the third Black woman to serve a lifetime appointment on the court. Johnson’s confirmation also ties the record for the most Black lifetime judges (62) confirmed during a presidency.
According to data tracked by The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, President Biden’s appointment of 62 Black lifetime judges is the highest in a single term. During his one term in office, President Jimmy Carter appointed 37 Black lifetime judges, as did President Bill Clinton during his first term. Over the course of their two terms in office, President Barack Obama and Clinton each appointed 62 Black judges.
During his first term, President Trump appointed only two Black women out of 234 judges to the federal bench, which is less than 1% of his appointments. Trump nominated no Black judges to federal circuit courts.
Since taking office, President Biden has vowed to reshape the federal judiciary to reflect America’s diversity. His most historic and notable appointment was Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, who was confirmed as the first Black woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court in April 2022.
Courtesy Supreme Court
Ketanji Brown Jackson
Biden has appointed several “first” Black judges across the nation’s district courts and courts of appeals, including Tiffany Cunningham, the first Black judge to serve on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit; Dana Douglas, the first Black woman to serve on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit; and Jerry Edwards, Jr., the first Black judge to serve on U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana.
In addition to this record appointment, the Leadership Conference also noted that among President Biden’s Black female judicial selections, more than half of them bring what advocates celebrate as important professional experiences to the federal bench as former civil rights lawyers and public defenders.
The steady appointments from President Biden (and confirmations by the Senate) are seen as necessary in his final 41 days in the Oval Office, not only to fulfill his goal of transforming the federal judiciary but also to preserve his legislative legacy. Many of his policies — and those enacted by President Trump in his second term — could be challenged in the courts in the coming months and years. The ideological bent of federal judges will undoubtedly have major implications.
Ted Knorr advocates for Hebert Alphonso “Rap” Dixon’s induction, citing decades of research and contributions to Negro League baseball, despite being overlooked for the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA – December 8, 2024
Ted Knorr, a passionate baseball historian from Harrisburg, PA, has made it his mission to secure the rightful recognition of Negro League legend Hebert Alphonso “Rap” Dixon in the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Knorr, a fixture in the Negro League baseball history community, delivered an inspiring presentation in June to the Kingston Woman’s History Club (KWHC). It was his third appearance before the organization.
Knorr’s address centered on Dixon, a trailblazing outfielder whose name resonates in the archives of Negro League baseball. Despite being named to the prestigious Negro League Centennial Team in 2018, Dixon remains the only position player from that roster yet to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.
A Historian’s Mission
Knorr’s journey with baseball history began with tales shared by his father about Pittsburgh Negro League greats like Satchel Paige and Josh Gibson. His fascination deepened after joining the Society for American Baseball Research in 1979 and its Negro League Research Committee in 1984. This passion eventually led him to Dixon, who played for the Harrisburg Giants.
Photo By Milton Kirby – Ted Knorr
Discovering that Dixon’s team had played at Rossmere Base Ball Park—on the very site of his high school in Lancaster—sparked a 36-year odyssey of research for Knorr. He’s since emerged as one of the foremost advocates for Dixon’s enshrinement in Cooperstown, building a case rooted in decades of meticulous study.
The Push for Cooperstown
Dixon, born September 15, 1902, in Kingston, Georgia. He lived a life shaped by both talent and struggle. The son of John and Rose Goodwin Dixon, his family relocated to Steelton, Pennsylvania, when he was a child. Dixon went on to have a remarkable career in the Negro Leagues. Dixon’s name became synonymous with speed, power, and skill in the outfield.
Knorr highlighted Dixon’s contributions to baseball during his presentation. He urged the KWHC audience to join the push for his induction. Ann Bridges-Jones, a former KWHC president, has been instrumental in amplifying Knorr’s efforts. She collaborated with him to create permanent exhibits honoring Dixon’s legacy at the club’s museums.
“The Hall of Fame is incomplete without Rap Dixon,” Knorr argued, emphasizing the glaring oversight.
A Timely Effort
The National Baseball Hall of Fame evaluates Negro League players alongside Classic Baseball Era candidates, focusing on contributions before 1980. The Classic Baseball Era Committee, which meets every three years, convening today, offered a critical window for Dixon’s consideration. The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum announced on November 11, 2024, an eight-person ballot that will be considered today by its Classic Baseball Era Committee for Hall of Fame election for the Class of 2025. That ballot failed yet again to include Dixon as a candidate.
Knorr’s campaign reminds the baseball world of the enduring need to honor players who were denied equal opportunities during their lifetimes. “We owe it to players like Dixon to ensure their stories are preserved and celebrated,” he said.
Keeping History Alive
The Kingston Woman’s History Club, which hosted Knorr, maintains two local museums: the Kingston History Museum and the Confederate Memorial Museum. These institutions, open on weekends, provide insight into the region’s post-Civil War life and Civil War artifacts, respectively.
Knorr’s advocacy bridges the worlds of local history and national recognition. Through his dedication, he hopes to immortalize Dixon’s contributions and inspire future generations to uncover and honor the unsung heroes of baseball.
The Classic Baseball Era Committee will announce live the results of their deliberations on MLB Network’s “MLB Tonight” at 6:30 p.m. CT on Sunday, Dec. 8. Knorr’s efforts stand as a powerful reminder that history’s legends deserve their place in the spotlight.
In addition to any electees who emerge from the 2025 Baseball Writers’ Association of America election, which will be announced on January 21, 2025, the candidate who receives votes on 75 percent of the committee’s ballots will be elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and inducted in Cooperstown on July 27, 2025
Managers, umpires, executives, and players who have been retired for more than 15 seasons can all be considered for Hall of Fame status through the Era Committee procedure, of which the Classic Baseball Era Committee is one of three groups.
Loretta Green’s Story: At 89, Loretta Green has been voting since 1960 and has a poll tax exemption certificate, symbolizing her resilience in the fight for voting rights, which she continues to advocate for today.
By Milton Kirby – Atlanta, GA – November 6, 2024
At 89 years old, Loretta Green, originally from Mobile, Alabama, and now an Atlanta resident has been casting her ballot since 1960—and she has a poll tax exemption certificate to prove it. For Green, this certificate is more than a document; it’s a testament to the resilience of voting rights. She knocked on doors this Election Day, rallying support for Vice President Kamala Harris and encouraging registered voters to make their voices heard.
Green’s journey in voter advocacy spans decades, rooted in a history of discrimination and unyielding perseverance. After the Civil War and throughout Reconstruction, Southern states enacted laws designed to curtail the voting rights of newly freed Black citizens. Chief among these barriers was the poll tax—a fee that, though small, effectively barred countless Black and poor White citizens from the ballot box.
The tax, ranging from $1 to $2 (roughly $20 to $40 today), was required annually, and voters often had to show proof of past payments to remain eligible. This and other discriminatory tactics sought to undermine the Fifteenth Amendment’s promise of voting rights, carefully crafted to avoid federal intervention while systematically disenfranchising African Americans.
This unjust barrier persisted until the mid-20th century when the civil rights movement brought national attention to voting rights. Although the Supreme Court initially upheld poll taxes in Breedlove v. Suttles in 1937, the tide turned with ratifying the 24th Amendment in 1964, which abolished poll taxes in federal elections. Two years later, the Supreme Court further ruled in Harper v. Virginia Board of Elections that poll taxes in all elections, state and local, were unconstitutional—ushering in an era of more inclusive democracy.
Ms. Green has attended countless voter rallies over the years, proudly displaying her poll tax exemption certificate as a reminder of past obstacles and the progress achieved. For Green, this certificate is a powerful symbol of the struggle and the triumph in the long fight for equal voting rights. She continues to inspire her community this Election Day, sharing her story as a reminder of the sacrifices made to secure the right to vote for all Americans.
By Milton Kirby – Atlanta, GA – September 21, 2024
Tina Charles, one of the WNBA’s most iconic players, continues to add to her illustrious career during a historic 2024 season. Charles, who made her debut in 2010 as the first overall draft pick by the Connecticut Sun, was unanimously named Rookie of the Year in her debut season. Since then, she has etched her name in the league’s record books, with her most recent accomplishments coming during a season filled with remarkable milestones.
Photo Dale Zanine NBAE Getty Images
After a 12-year journey through the league, Charles joined the Atlanta Dream as a free agent in February 2024, following stints with the Connecticut Sun (2010–13), New York Liberty (2014–19), Washington Mystics (2021), Phoenix Mercury (2022), and Seattle Storm (2022). Her move to Atlanta has been marked by a string of firsts for both her and the franchise, cementing her status as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
On September 19, 2024, during a game against her former team, the New York Liberty, Charles became the WNBA’s all-time leader in total rebounds and double-doubles. Heading into the game, she needed just two rebounds to tie Sylvia Fowles’ record of 4,006. In just over three minutes into the first quarter, Charles grabbed her third rebound, passing Fowles and making history. “I can’t take this moment without mentioning Sylvia Fowles and what she’s meant to my career,” Charles said. “The heights she reached. The great person she is. It’s pretty special, full circle for me.”
Photo Pepper Robinson NBAE Getty Images
The historic night didn’t stop there. Later in the game, Charles notched her 194th career double-double, surpassing Fowles for the most in WNBA history.
Charles’s six seasons with the New York Liberty added special significance to her achievements, as she was inducted into the New York City Basketball Hall of Fame on September 19, 2024.
In August 2024, Charles also moved into second place on the WNBA’s all-time scoring list, passing the legendary Tina Thompson. Charles accomplished this feat on August 21, when she converted a layup against the Phoenix Mercury. Just days earlier, on August 16, she had recorded her 3,000th career field goal in a game against the Seattle Storm, where she scored the game-winning shot, capping off a 16-point performance.
Charles’ contributions to the Atlanta Dream have also been groundbreaking. She set a new franchise record for double-doubles in a single season, surpassing Érika de Souza’s record of 18, and became the first Dream player to record over 500 points and 300 rebounds in a single season.
The 2012 WNBA MVP, Charles has been named to nine All-WNBA First- and Second-Teams, earned eight All-Star selections, and was part of four All-Defensive Teams. Internationally, she represented the U.S. in three Olympic Games, winning gold medals in 2012, 2016, and 2021.
Photo by Bruce Bennett Getty Images
With over 7,000 career points and 4,000 rebounds, Charles is the only player in WNBA history to reach both milestones, a testament to her all-around excellence. Although she sits behind only Diana Taurasi in career points, with Taurasi’s record at 10,500 points, Charles’ legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats is firmly solidified.
As the 2024 season concludes, Tina Charles continues to shine, leaving an indelible mark on the league and inspiring generations of players to come.
