On June 19th, 1865, federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be freed. Juneteenth, as it was and is still called, has been celebrated by African Americans since the late 1800s. In 2021, President Biden signed legislation to make Juneteenth, which falls on June 19th, a federal holiday. Even before passing this bill, there was an observable increase in Juneteenth celebrations across the United States. 

How Did Juneteenth Begin?

The federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in June of 1865, a full two months after the Confederate general Robert E. Lee surrendered at Appomattox, Virginia. The arrival of General Gordon Granger and his 2,000 troops was to inform the nearly 250,000 enslaved African Americans in Texas of their freedom and the end of the Civil War. General Granger’s announcement put into effect the Emancipation Proclamation, which President Abraham Lincoln issued nearly two and half years earlier on January 1, 1863. The holiday, Juneteenth, is also called Juneteenth Independence Day, Freedom Day, or Emancipation Day. 

The post-emancipation period, or Reconstruction (1865-1867) marked an era of new hope, uncertainty, and struggle for the nation. Formerly enslaved people sought to reunite with families, establish schools, push laws into legislation, run for political office, and even sue slaveholders for compensation. Juneteenth, then, acts as a second day of independence in the United States. 

How Is Juneteenth Celebrated?

Despite the fact that it has been a long celebrated tradition in the African American community, Juneteenth is a monumental event that remains largely unknown to most Americans. The historical legacy of the day represents the value of never giving up hope in times of uncertainty. While many people may get the day off work for this federal holiday, early celebrations involved small family gatherings and prayer. As the years went by, later celebrations involved pilgrimages to Galveston to former enslaved people and their families. 

In 1872, a group of African American businessmen and ministers in Houston, Texas purchased 10 acres of land to create Emancipation Park. The park held the city’s annual Juneteenth celebrations for years. Today, celebrations often take place among families and food is typically a focal point. Some cities, including Washington D.C. and Atlanta, hold larger events that include festivals and parades with local businesses and residents. 

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many Juneteenth celebrations were on hold for 2020 and 2021. That’s why celebrations ramped up in 2022 and future plans for the holiday are only growing. Galveston continues to remain a busy site for Juneteenth events, and artists dedicated a 5,000-square-foot mural in 2021. This year, in 2023, Galveston will celebrate the holiday with a scholarship ball, a banquet, and a festival. Organizers in Atlanta will hold a parade and music festival, while other cities, including Los Angeles, Brooklyn, Tulsa, And Philadelphia, will hold similar events. 

The Path To A Federal Holiday

Texas became the first state to designate Juneteenth as a holiday in 1980. All 50 states and the District of Colombia now recognize the holiday in some way, shape, or form. In the wake of the nationwide protests against police brutality in 2020, the push for federal recognition of Juneteenth gained new momentum. Congress rushed the bill through legislation in the summer of 2021. 

In fact, the House passed the measure by a vote of 415 to 14. The opposing votes came from members of the Republican party. Some of the opposers even argued that calling the new holiday Juneteenth Independence Day, echoing July 4, would create confusion among the American public and force them to choose a celebration of freedom based on race. 

The law went into effect on June 17, 2021, making Juneteenth the 11th federally-recognized holiday. The first federal Juneteenth holiday was observed the very next day after President Biden signed the bill into law. Juneteenth was observed on June 18, as June 19 fell on a Saturday.

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Sometimes, you are lucky enough to find something you are truly passionate about in this life. That is a gift, and it is exactly what happened to the CEO of Dherbs, A.D. Dolphin. It took time and trial and error for A.D. to realize his dream, but he succeeded. In honor of Black History Month, we wanted to celebrate A.D. for not only being a CEO of a black-owned business, but also one of the leading online retailers of herbal supplements. 

How Dherbs Began

Over 20 years ago, A.D. was struggling with some health issues, drinking more soda than he cares to admit and not in the great health he is in today. He wasn’t working out as much and started to gain weight. A friend introduced him to cleansing, an idea that had never occurred to him before. After his first cleanse, A.D. lost weight and felt better than he ever had before. From that point forth, he knew what he wanted to do for the rest of his life: create a cleanse and other herbal supplements that helped people achieve the same vibrant health he was feeling. 

A.D. met with the best herbalists to formulate a cleanse that would clean out the entire body, not just the colon or digestive tract, which most cleanses focus on. Thus, the Full Body Cleanse, Dherbs’ flagship product, was born. Since its inception, the Full Body Cleanse, a 20-day program that helps to clean out the body’s major organs and systems, has helped millions of people around the world optimize their health. 

Dherbs Has You, The Customers, To Thank

Dherbs’ primary objective has been, and continues to be, to assist people in reclaiming their birthright of optimal health. Without your desire to turn your life around and become healthier, we would not be where we are today. As the company has grown, it’s been a truly amazing experience to hear stories of personal growth and health transformation. When we see the before and after pictures, it inspires us, and A.D., more than you even realize.

To see a person’s body transform in a matter of weeks never gets old. We have seen thousands and thousands of before and after pictures, and we are impressed every single time. In fact, it gives A.D. inspiration to be as healthy as he can be! He wants to continue to set an example, not only as the CEO, but as a Black man challenging the health issues that disproportionately affect the Black community.

As of a couple years ago, the life expectancy at birth for Black Americans was 70.8 years, with 66.7 years for men and 74.8 years for women. The death rate for Black Americans is usually higher than white Americans for heart disease, stroke, cancer, influenza, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, cancer, and asthma. If A.D. and Dherbs can do anything to help correct, or at least make a small but positive dent, in these issues, then we have succeeded. 

Thank you, Dherbs Family, for the continued support over the years. We hope that you continue to grow with us and that you keep sending your health transformations our way. Not to be corny, but keep calm and cleanse on!

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Nearly 100 years ago, the United States celebrated the first Black History Month as a weeklong event. Carter G. Woodson established that week as Negro History Week, and he realized the importance of establishing a theme to attract and focus the public’s attention. The intention was never to dictate or limit the exploration of the Black experience; rather, the goal has been to bring public awareness to important developments that merit emphasis. 

Since 1976, the U.S. has celebrated February as Black History Month. Not only does Black history embrace the 400-year-long record of Black life in America, but it also emphasizes stories and activism against slavery and present-day racism. Read on to learn about eight facts about Black History Month. 

Black History Month Began As Negro History Week

As previously stated, Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week in 1926. The celebration highlighted Black Americans’ lives, history, and contributions to the U.S. It wasn’t until 1976 when Negro History Week expanded to a month-long celebration that people continue to observe today. 

The Theme For Black History Month Changes Yearly

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), which was founded by Carter G. Woodson, selects a different theme for Black History Month each year. The very first theme was Civilization: A World Achievement. The theme for 2023 is Black Resistance, which sheds a light on historic and modern oppressions against Black Americans. Resisting acts of discrimination, racism, and injustice plays an integral role in the well-being of Black Americans. 

Different Countries Celebrate Black History Month

Known as the “Mother of Black History Month” in Canada, Dr. Jean Augustine established celebrations in 1995. Just like in the U.S., celebrations occur in February. In the Netherlands, Ireland, and the United Kingdom, Black History Month is observed in October. The United Kingdom’s initial focus was on Black American history, but the focus now is on Black British history.

Black History Month Recognizes All African American Experiences

According to the Census Bureau, Black Americans accounted for 13.6% of the U.S. population as of 2022. That means that there are over 45 million different lived experiences across the nation. Each experience is honored during Black History Month, and celebrations that honor these experiences are about supporting communities, family members, and the stories that unite them. 

Black Students Protested For Black History Month

In 1968, members of the Black United Students (BUS) at Kent State University protested disorderly conduct charges against students that participated in sit-ins. The student activism was successful in that it helped establish three Black studies departments and institutes on campus. The following year, BUS members demanded Kent State extend Negro History Week into a month of Black history celebrations. This was later observed nationwide. 

National Organizations Sponsor Black History Month

Different organizations honor Black History Month every February by hosting commemorative events. Of the many Black History Month sponsors, some of them include The Library of Congress, The National Park Service, The Smithsonian Institution, and The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. These organization-run events involve art gallery productions, different speakers, and community learn sessions. 

HBCUs Promote Black History Year-Round

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were established to provide higher education opportunities to Black Americans. Cheyney University of Pennsylvania was the first HBCU established in 1837. HBCUs that were established prior to 1964 honor their mission to educate Black Americans. These universities recognize Black American experiences in addition to teaching Black history.

February Honors Frederick Douglass And Abraham Lincoln

Carter G. Woodson selected February to celebrate Black History Month for good reason. He wanted to honor Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln’s birth dates. Lincoln declared freedom for enslavedAmericans held in the Confederacy via the Emancipation Proclamation. Douglass escaped American slavery in 1838 and became a famous abolitionist, speaker, and writer. One of his most famous books was A Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave. 

Black History Month is a time to reflect on the past and learn from earlier lessons to avoid repeating the same mistakes. Explore community events and celebrations this February to learn more about Black History.

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Each year on the third Monday of January, we observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (MLK Day) in the United States. Although it is a federal holiday, it is also a chance to reflect on the work that still needs to be done to establish racial equality. This year, aim to make this holiday more than a day off from work. Take the time to select and consider how you can get involved in civil rights issues around the world. 

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr was born on January 15th, 1929. Best known for his work as a civil rights leader, King dedicated his life to working on racial equality and ending racial segregation in the United States. On MLK Day, we remember his life and achievements, but it took quite some time for Congress to make King’s birthday a federal holiday. 

A Brief History Of MLK Day

The bill first came to vote in the U.S. House of Representative in 1979, but it fell five votes short of the number required for passage. One argument against this day was that it would be too expensive, as a national holiday requires payment for federal employees. The other argument was that it would go against the longstanding tradition to have a holiday that honored a private citizen. King never held public office and, at the time, only two other figures had national holidays: George Washington and Christopher Columbus. 

The King Center sought out support from the general public and corporate community. It was Stevie Wonder’s release of the single “Happy Birthday” that truly popularized the campaign in 1980. Six million signatures were collected to petition for Congress to pass the law, which was the largest petition in favor of an issue in U.S. history. President Reagan, who initially opposed the holiday, signed a bill to create a federal holiday honoring Dr. King on November 2nd, 1983. On January 20th, 1986, the holiday was observed for the first time, and in the year 2000, all 50 states observed MLK Day for the first time. 

MLK Spent His Wedding Night In A Funeral Home

When MLK married Coretta Scott in June of 1953, they couldn’t stay in a hotel that would allow them, as African-Americans, to spend the night. What did they do? The newlyweds spent their first night as a married couple in an African-American-owned funeral home. Five years later, they were able to take a second, more pleasurable honeymoon in Mexico. 

His Birth Name Was Michael

At birth, MLK was given the name Michael King Jr, meaning that his father was Michael King. Later, his father changed his own name to Martin Luther, after the Protestant Reformation leader. He changed the name of his son when he changed his own name. 

The Most Famous Portion Of The “I Have A Dream Speech” May Have Been Improvised

Most people are aware of the first few sentences of this historic speech. It begins with, “I have a dream…,” and his “March on Washington” speech was very long. It was long enough to have been pre-written ahead of time. Historians, however, believe that King ad-libbed his most famous words on the day he gave the speech, August 28th, 1963. The ideas were similar to some that he expressed previously, but he delivered them in a uniquely powerful, memorable way. 

MLK Delivered That Speech To Over 250,000 People

As previously mentioned, MLK’s most famous speech was the “I Have A Dream” speech that he delivered at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. He said “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.” He gave the speech at the “March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom” event. The goal: to promote equal rights for all. Over 250,000 people listened to MLK speak that day, in awe of his words that would inspire future generations. 

There Are Over 900 Streets Worldwide Named For MLK

MLK is one of the most important figures that promoted equal rights via nonviolent tactics. He is a common namesake for streets and boulevards around the world. There are over 900 streets that bear MLK’s name. About 70% of those streets are in the Southern United States, with over 100 streets in King’s home state of Georgia.

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When Carter G. Woodson established Negro History week in 1926, he understood the importance of providing a theme. The intention has always been to direct the public’s attention to important developments of the Black experience. Dictating or limiting the exploration of this experience was never the goal. 

This year, Black History Month embraces the theme of Black health and wellness, including mental and spiritual health. It not only acknowledges the legacy of Black scholars and practitioners in Western medicine, but also doulas, birthworkers, midwives, herbalists, and naturopaths throughout the African diaspora.

Black Health And Wellness

Throughout history, Black people set out to build hospitals, medical and nursing schools, and community clinics, all through self-determination and social support initiatives. Over time, the African Union Society, National Association of Colored Women, and Black Panther Party aided grassroots establishment of clinics and spaces. The intention was to provide Black people, who faced economic and health disparities from mainstream institutions, access to ample care and programs. Initiatives to decrease disparities resulted in more diverse practitioners and representation in medical and health programs. 

The sad reality is that today, almost 60 years after the passage of the Civil Rights Act, the United States lags behind many other nations, in regards to providing affordable medical care. This has left Black Americans and other minorities vulnerable, in regards to insufficient access to health resources. That being said, the understanding of Black health and wellness is more nuanced now than ever before. Social media, podcasts, and other sources have normalized the open conversation of going to therapy and mental health. Therapy for Black Girls is one such initiative that helps to lift up, center, and give more understanding to mental health and the connection to spiritual health.

Black Joy Is The Center Black Identity

Black joy is at the center of Black art, Black ideology, Black community, and Black identity. It’s the pulse of survival, perseverance, resilience, and overall health and wellbeing. Some Black historians consider joy to be a superpower in times of injustice. Joy may not be the first thing that people think of in regards to racial justice and police brutality, which have been magnified in the public eye over the last several years. The discussion shifts towards the burdens of being Black and systemic racism. Ultimately, this view doesn’t shine a light on the upside of being a proud member of the African diaspora. 

Religious and spiritual practices have been an integral component in Black communities. In spite of racism and discrimination, Black people have fought with secular and religious tools to hold on to human values. Engaging in activism, participating in mental health treatment, and receiving community support also helps people engage and connect with spiritual practices. There’s an affirmation of humanity and love that helps tap into Black joy, which recognizes the ability to overcome impossible feats and face the odds with love.

February 2022

For this month, many spaces aim to provide a safe haven for dialogue and discussions that identify issues that affect Black communities. There has been a recent awakening about mental and physical health within Black communities, with a new focus on developing healthy lifestyle habits. In addition to maintaining low-cholesterol and low-sodium diets and daily exercise, engaging in therapy and receiving regular medical screenings are also of importance. Opening and continuing the discussion only brings about more awareness and acceptance.

There has never been a better time than now to improve overall health and wellness. With so many resources available, everyone has the opportunity to take control of both their physical and mental health. Continue to strive for excellence and self-improvement and allow education to promote hopefulness. 

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Every third Monday in January honors the birthday of the civil rights activist, leader, and orator, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The journey to true equality among all races is still incomplete, but MLK’s historic contributions to racial justice for Black Americans are undeniable. Although schools or businesses may close for this holiday, it is by no means a day off. It’s a day to recognize nationwide service that honor’s Dr. King’s values and his role in American history.

According to Coretta Scott King, Dr. King’s wife, “This is not a Black holiday; it’s a people’s holiday.” It’s a day to unite for equality, kindness, peace, and love. By honoring these values, we can rise above and become better as people. Depending on the state of COVID-19 in your city or state, in-person events may not be possible, but you can still celebrate MLK Day in a meaningful way. 

Educate Yourself

It’s rare that you learn about history from all sides, especially when it comes to the topic of race in America. One area of the country might learn one thing, while another area grows up with a completely different view. It’s ultimately your responsibility to have a good understanding why there is a day dedicated to MLK. To honor his life, read some of King’s books or read books about him, and attempt to read the ones written by Black authors. Take note of his letters and explore his radical ideology. You may find that you learn things that were never taught in history classes. 

Do Something Good

There are many ways to do good in today’s day and age. You can donate to a cause that advocates nonviolent social change or volunteer at an organization. The Smithsonian Institution and Library of Congress, for example, looks for volunteers to digitally transcribe documents. Projects range from African-American history and women’s suffrage to the personal letters of historical figures like MLK. If you feel uneasy about volunteering in-person because of COVID-19 numbers, research virtual opportunities. The Corporation for National and Community Service allows you to find local volunteer opportunities on MLK Day.

Talk To Your Elders

For Black Americans, especially people with relatives who grew up in the South, talking to older family members can be an eye-opening experience. Many people have grandparents who are living history, protested with Dr. King, or watched the broadcast of his historical March on Washington. Make an effort to reach out to these family members, be it on the phone or in-person. Open up an honest dialogue about the past and you may learn something new about your family history. 

Create Something That Inspires Conversation

Although MLK delivered his “I Have A Dream” speech nearly 60 years ago, his words are just as relevant today. Reflecting on his message of peace and equality may help us imagine a brighter future of positivity. One exercise you can do is write your dreams into existence. Do this in any way that you see fit. Incorporate drawing, painting, or collage into this exercise. As long as you have paper and something to draw/write with, you can make it happen. Encourage children to take part in this project as well, as critical thinking can bring about more social change. 

Join The “March”

In 1963, MLK led a monumental protest of 250,000 people on Washington. All of them believed in one thing: the civil and economic rights for Black Americans. It was before this sea of supportive people that he delivered the “I Have A Dream” speech, cementing his support of the civil rights movement. Although everyone in the United States doesn’t have the luxury of hitting the sidewalk in D.C., you can “march” in your own way. Whether you participate in a parade in your community, attend a virtual parade, or go on a peace walk through your neighborhood, you have the power to march in Dr. King’s honor. 

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If we look back on the events of the past year, they are nothing short of historic, especially for Black Americans. The killing of George Floyd, a Black man who was murdered in police custody, sparked a collective movement across the nation. Widespread protests highlighted racial injustice and proved the reality of systemic racism. All you have to do is compare photos of the Capitol during the Black Lives Matter protests to the recent storming of the Capitol to see racial inequality. The United States also elected its first Black vice president, and Georgia sent its first Black senator to the Capitol. 

The United States recognizes February as Black History Month, but Black history is deserving of celebration year round. Typically, many physical in-person events take place, educating and exposing the masses to cultural traditions and stories. Unfortunately, we remain in the vice grip of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has caused disproportionate deaths and job losses for Black Americans. Although we may not be able to come together to celebrate, there are many ways to take part in Black History Month celebrations. Get inspired by the following ideas and cultural events this February. 

Become A Bone Marrow Donor

BeTheMatch foundation is in dire need of African American bone marrow donors. People who identify as Black or African American have a 23% chance of finding a suitable bone marrow match. This percentage is even lower for multiracial patients. The reason for this is because there is a low representation in the registry. Increasing the amount of Black bone marrow donors could mean saving the lives of people suffering from sickle cell anemia or complex blood cancers like lymphoma. 

Black History Month In The Parks

The Urban Park Rangers set up a series of socially distanced outdoor events in New York’s Central Park. These events aim to explore the city’s Black history via walking tours focusing on Seneca Village in the early 1800s before Central Park. This area was predominantly inhabited by African American property owners, and it was a sanctuary for people escaping slavery via the Underground Railroad. 

Read Black Literature

Reading is a lost art, but literature plays an important role in the way we perceive the world. The different viewpoints from authors allow us to see and understand different perspectives of the world over time. During Black History Month, choose books with intention and support black authors and the stories they tell. Does your perception of Black History change after these influences? Consider reading The Motherlode: 100+ Women Who Made Hip-Hop, which honors the accomplishments of female hip-hop artists. 

Support Black-Owned Meal Prep Services

You either love to cook or you don’t, but it’s safe to say that everyone loves to eat. Since health is of the utmost importance nowadays, consider revamping your diet. If you don’t want to cook the meals, subscribe to a meal preparation service that offers chef-curated meals. Many black-owned meal prep services exist around the country, so give them a shot during February. If you need some ideas of companies to order from, click here. 

Watch Black Films

There are powerful Black directors and actors doing big things in the film industry. Streaming services such as HBO Max, Disney+, and Hulu offer Black History Month collections, but there are two recent movies that celebrate pivotal moments in history. Regina King made her directorial debut in One Night In Miami, which captures a fictionalized meeting between Sam Cooke, Jim Brown, Malcom X, and Muhammed Ali on one night. In a room at the Hampton House in February 1964, the four discuss their responsibilities of being successful black men in the Civil Rights movement. Additionally, Judah and the Black Messiah releases in theaters and on HBO Max on February 12th, 2021. This movie focuses on the rise in power of the chairman of the Illinois chapter of the Black Panthers, and the betrayal that resulted in his death by the F.B.I. 

Support Black Owned Businesses

This suggestion should not be limited to the month of February; rather, people should always be conscious of supporting black entrepreneurs or multiracial businesses in their communities. During Black History Month, make intentional decisions to support Black-owned businesses. If you are unaware of these businesses in your area, consider researching your community and see what products/services are offered. 

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It’s rare that people get excited about history. Most people have this preconceived notion that it is mundane, dry, and reduced to a few memorable moments, people, or events. It’s true that courageous moments like MLK’s “I Have A Dream Speech” or The Underground Railroad are historic moments. We know about them from history class in school, but Black History Month means more than these significant events. 

February is Black History Month, which honors the monumental contributions from African Americans in the United States throughout history. Federally recognized and celebrated nationwide, Black History Month celebrates how African Americans played a role in shaping this great nation. Who was the father of Black History Month? 

The Man Behind Black History Month

Carter G. Woodson, a pioneer in African American history, is given a lot of credit for Black History Month. He was the son of former slaves and was disgusted by textbooks that excluded or ignored the Black population in America. To include and write about Black Americans’ relationship to U.S. History, he established the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. He also developed the foundation’s respected publication, the Journal of Negro History. Woodson established Negro History Week in 1926, and that later transitioned to Black History Month in 1976. Find out more little known facts about Black History Month below. 

One In Four Cowboys Was Black

Despite what you see in old Western movies or read about in books, one in four cowboys was Black. Some argue that the “Lone Ranger” was inspired by a Black man named Bass Reeves. This man was born a slave, but he escaped during the Civil War and resided on Native American territory. He was a master of disguise, an excellent marksman, had a Native American companion, and he even rode a silver horse. 

Interracial Marriage

A large part of the 17th and early 18th century saw an increasing amount of interracial marriages between Blacks and Whites. In 1664, the colony of Maryland enacted the first law against interracial marriage, then referred to as miscegenation; other colonies soon followed suit. It would take 300 years for the law to be overturned in 1967. Mildred Jeter, a Black woman, married Richard Loving, a White man, and they were arrested and sentenced to one year in prison. Their case went to the Supreme Court, where it was ruled unconstitutional to prohibit interracial marriage. 

Why February? 

Carter G. Woodson chose the second week of February for the initial Negro History Week. The reason he chose February is because of two prominent February birthdays: Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. Douglass escaped slavery and became a civil rights leader and abolitionist. President Lincoln, as most of you know, signed the Emancipation Proclamation that abolished slavery in the confederate states. 

Lincoln University

Lincoln University in Pennsylvania was the first institution of higher education founded for African Americans. The creation of this establishment paved the way for 104 other historically Black colleges. Famous alums from some renowned Black colleges include Thurgood Marshall, Oprah Winfrey, and Spike Lee. 

Black History Month Has Different Themes

Since the first celebrated Black History Month in 1976, every February has had a specific theme. The theme for Black History Month in 2021 is “Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity.” The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) decided on this theme because it’s time that all Americans honor the accomplishments of Black Americans throughout history. 

Claudette Colvin Came Before Rosa Parks

Rosa Parks is often thought of as the first person who refused to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Historically, several brave women did the same thing before her, one being Claudette Colvin. On March 2, 1955, Colvin refused to move to the back of the bus. She was 15 years old at the time, and this predated Rosa Parks’ protest by nine months.

Colvin studied influential Black leaders and when the bus driver asked her to move to the back of the bus, she claimed that the force of those leaders kept her in her seat. She was thrown in jail and later challenged segregation in court in the Browder v. Gayle case, which overturned bus segregation in Montgomery and Alabama. Her story remains in the shadows of Rosa Parks’ story because the NAACP thought Parks was a better icon than a teenager for the movement. 

The Quakers Protested Slavery In 1688

Sometimes known as “The Society of Friends,” the Quakers have a long history of abolition. Four friends from Germantown, Pennsylvania are responsible for the initial 17th century protest, though. These four people thought the slave trade was unjust and inhumane, and argued the Golden Rule against this horrible treatment of the fellow man. In the document they wrote for the protest, they wrote, “Pray, what thing in the world can be done worse towards us, then if men should rob or steal us away, & sell us for slaves to strange Countries, separating husband from their wife and children…” The four friends continued to protest, presenting it at the “Monthly Meeting at Dublin” in Philadelphia. 88 years of effort later, the Quakers finally denounced slavery. 

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In honor of Black History Month, we want to celebrate African-Americans who have made a difference in the health world. People of color were not always welcome in the medical field, and even African-Americans who made forward strides in medical research were often overlooked in historical accounts. The figures in this article, however, have either been doctors, patients, public officials, activists, or researchers. Thanks to these individuals, there have been advancements in breast cancer research, vision health, asthma, and health care policies. Let’s meet some of these inspirational people and continue to honor their achievements.

Henry Blair (1807-1860)

There isn’t much information about the life of Henry Blair, but he did invent the seed planter, which allowed farmers to plant corn quickly and efficiently. He was also the second African-American to hold a United States patent. He also invented a cotton planter that deposited seeds evenly in freshly turned soil. He was also the second African-American inventor to be rewarded a patent for his invention.

Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler (1831-1895)

In 1864, Dr. Crumpler became the first African-American woman to earn a medical degree. After working with clinics and conducting research to help improve the health of black communities, she dedicated the rest of her life to providing medical treatment to newly freed African-Americans in the South after the Civil War.

Daniel Hale Williams (1858-1931)

Dr. Williams started the first African-American-owned hospital in America. He was a renowned cardiologist, who was actually one of the first doctors to perform open-heart surgery on a human patient. Before he died, Dr. Williams co-founded the National Medical Association for African-American doctors.

Mary E. Mahoney (1845-1926)

A Boston native, Mary E. Mahoney was acknowledged as the first African-American woman to finish nurse’s training, graduating from the New England Hospital for Women and Children in 1879. Not only was she among the first African-American members of the American Nurse’s Association (ANA), but she was also one of the members in the inaugural class of the Nursing Hall of Fame, inducted in 1976. Since 1952, the the ANA has awarded the Mary Elizabeth Mahoney Award to individuals who make significant contributions to nursing.

Henrietta Lacks (1920-1951)

Henrietta Lacks was the progenitor of the one of the most important cell lines in medical history: the HeLa cell line. She was diagnosed with cervical cancer at age 30. A doctor at Johns Hopkins Hospital removed a piece of her tumor and discovered that her cells never died. Even though she died in 1951, her “immortal” cells helped unlock the polio vaccine, and were essential for gene mapping and in vitro fertilization.

Charles Drew (1904-1950)

Charles Drew was the first African-American to graduate with a degree in medicine from Columbia University. He was a blood plasma specialist who helped pioneer blood transfusions. Drew became the head of the Red Cross and helped abolish prejudiced policies about blood donations from different races.

Phill Wilson (1956-present)

Phill Wilson and his partner were diagnosed with HIV in the early 1980s, a time when the AIDS epidemic was on the rise in America. From the time he was diagnosed, Wilson has been an activist with the belief that African-Americans needed a stronger response to the AIDS epidemic. Wilson founded the Black AIDS Institute in 1999 to conduct trainings and publish studies & articles about HIV/AIDS awareness around the country. He continually fights to raise awareness and will never lose hope.

Dr. Joycelyn Elders (1933-present)

This woman has been a powerful voice in public health for several decades. After serving in the army, Elders enrolled in medical school in 1956. By 1961 she was the chief resident at the University of Arkansas, where she oversaw the all-white and all-male interns and residents. in 1978, Elders became the first Arkansas resident to get board certified in pediatric endocrinology, and she continued research in this field through the 1980s. At the time, Gov. Bill Clinton made Elders the head of the Arkansas Department of Health in 1987. She lobbied for improved local sexual education courses and initiated conversations about this on a national level as well. After Clinton was elected president, he named Elders U.S. Surgeon General in 1993, but she only lasted 15 months because her views on contraception was considered controversial.

Dr. Teletia Taylor (1961-present)

According to research, breast cancer is the number one killer of black women. Dr. Teletia Taylor, assistant professor of Medicine and Psychology at Howard University, was a researcher in a study that revealed that women who faced frequent discrimination had a higher risk of developing breast cancer. She is continuing her research, investigating how stress management therapy may be a better option than chemotherapy for cancer patients.

Michelle Obama (1964-present)

While Michelle Obama may be relaxing after serving as the First Lady for two terms, she was no slouch in the White House. Michelle is a health advocate and continues to raise awareness about childhood obesity with her Let’s Move! program. Her mission is to help lower child obesity rates in America, and this work has helped bring healthier lunches to schools nationwide.

Tracye McQuirter (1966-present)

Tracye McQuirter, a long time animal rights activist, 30-year vegan, and nutritionist, released a free vegan guide to help African-Americans reclaim their health. She partnered with Farm Sanctuary, an animal rescue organization, to release this guide. Only 3% of African-Americans are vegan, but McQuirter believes that African-Americans benefit most from eating plant-based diets, primarily because it is a part of their cultural heritage.

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President Ronald Reagan signed the King Holiday Bill into office on November 4th, 1983. This was fifteen years after the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968), a Baptist minister who led the Civil Rights Movement in the United States from the 1950s up until his death. Just months after his death, Congressman John Conyers Jr. of Michigan petitioned to make King’s birthday, January 15^th, a federal holiday.

There was a lot of controversy over the passing of this bill and it wasn’t immediately passed. It actually languished in Congress for 8 years before Jimmy Carter helped support Coretta Scott King, King’s wife, in passing the bill. It was defeated in 1979, though, by just 5 votes. Coretta received some help from legendary musician Stevie Wonder when he wrote the song “Happy Birthday” in 1980. Stevie and Coretta presented the bill to Congress with 6 million support signatures and the House passed the bill with a 338 to 90 vote.

The bill faced some trouble in the Senate because several Republican senators attempted to associate King’s beliefs with those of communists, and they highlighted his alleged sexual dalliances as reasons not to make his birthday a federal holiday. Nevertheless, the bill passed and Reagan signed it into office in 1983. It has since taken place annually on the third Monday in January.

“This is not a black holiday; it’s a people’s holiday,” said Ms. King. That is exactly how we should remember Dr. King. Unite for equality. Be kind to each other, continue spreading love and peace, and always strive to rise above. We need to embody these words now more than ever.

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