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“Black History Month encourages us to remember and celebrate year-round the diverse people who came before us and paved the road that we navigate today as Americans. It triggers ongoing reflection during which we acknowledge the consequential role that African Americans have played since our nation’s founding, even when they were not afforded similar freedoms, fair opportunities, or recognized for their contributions to US society – culturally, militarily, and otherwise.
Individuals and groups like Mary Elizabeth Bowser, Colonel Charles Young, the First Rhode Island Regiment, the 57th Ordinance Ammunition Company, and the Six Triple Eight Central Postal Directory Battalion should resonate in our collective consciousness long after their historic deeds. These Veterans rose to defend the ideal of America during a time when they were not treated as equal citizens, yet they executed their missions and fought heroically, representing the best of who we are.
Black History Month provokes us to not only reflect on the past, but to use those reflections to inform a broader perspective as we – all of us, in our own ways, shapes, and forms – serve as present-day history makers. When it comes to matters of race, we do not simply acknowledge America’s shifting tide; we shift it. Like good Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Guardians, Coast Guardsmen, and Marines – and those who love them – we take stock of our progress and continue to march, building upon the road our ancestors crafted so that the path is easier for our descendants as we co-create a brighter tomorrow.
Happy Black History Month!”
- James Hendon, Commissioner of the NYC Department of Veterans' Services
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