Black History – An American Story

When we reflect on the story of America, we cannot tell it fully without honoring the contributions, hardships and triumphs of all of its people, including Black Americans.

From the brave souls who spoke out against the atrocities of slavery centuries ago to those who paved the way for our current individual achievements, we owe each a debt of recognition and a promise to embrace their stories as a part of the interwoven fabric of our nation.

As a child, my grandparents and parents took me and my sister to every museum within a day’s drive with the knowing that the only way to understand who you are today, and to know with any certainty where you’re going is to fully appreciate the path of those who came before you.

Black History Month affords us an opportunity to look back with admiration and look to the future with hope as we realize that through every generation, a spark of light is passed down – carrying us through the darkest of days, reminding us of our strength and guiding us towards greatness. It’s not just a light we inherit but one we nurture and pass on, ensuring that no matter the odds, we can overcome, we can achieve, we can rise.

The story of Black America is intimately linked to the story of America and innumerable unnamed heroes – mothers, fathers, teachers, laborers – who carried on despite the odds to help future generations realize the promise of this country and the dreams of our ancestors.

This is a story that continues to unfold, and each of us can shape its direction. If there’s one thing I’m certain of, it’s that our progress relies on our commitment to uplifting one another – embracing our differences and finding joy in the common ground that unites us.

Celebrating Black history is, in essence, celebrating American history. We all deserve an opportunity to be celebrated so this month, I encourage you to take time to reflect on our individual impact and our human connection. I hope you will also explore your own family’s story and amplify vital voices in your community.

I’m so grateful for the legacy of people like my grandmother who created a strong vision for what her family could achieve, and people like my grandfather, who continues to educate the community as part of his lifelong commitment to ensuring our stories are not lost or forgotten but passed down as a blueprint across generations.

By sharing our stories and our knowledge, we pave the way for progress and ensure that our efforts continue to empower and inspire long after we’re gone.

Throughout the month, our social media content will shine a light on some important but lesser-known figures throughout Black American History and showcase the work United Way is doing daily to make true the vision for an America that supports and embraces all.

United is the Way.

Darienne Driver Hudson, Ed.D.
President and CEO
United Way for Southeastern Michigan