Dismantling Racism – February 2022
Our Dismantling Racism team is working diligently to help dismantle racism by reading, watching videos, movies, and sharing that information with our church and community. Our monthly articles are provided to assist in your own journey to see and hear about racism.
February is African American History Month
Dr. Carter G. Woodson
In 1926, Dr. Carter G. Woodson (1875-1950) instituted the first week-long celebration to raise awareness of African Americans’ contributions to history. Prior to this time, little information could be found regarding African American history. Important achievements were left out of history books, and there was great misconception that African Americans had made little contribution to U.S. society or history. 50 years later, the week became a month, and today, February is celebrated as African American History Month. This month was chosen because it celebrated the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, both of whom dramatically affected the lives of African Americans.
Frederick Douglass in 1879
Frederick Douglass (1817-1895) was a writer, lecturer, editor and civil rights activist who escaped slavery at age 21 and went on to campaign for the abolition of slaver, establish a newspaper, and hold the office of Minister to Haiti. He was a major voice in the anti-slavery/civil rights movement of the time.
President Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), the sixteenth President of the United States, issues the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, therefore declaring that all slaves within the Confederacy would be permanently free.
Dismantling Racism Book Display
For the month of February, PUMC’s Dismantling Racism team has assembled a display of books and resources in the Narthex to share with the congregation. Books are available to check out (just sign out on the sheet) to read at home & return when you’re done.
