• 800,000 African Americans became unemployed in the last year.
• Black unemployment reached 7.3% before dropping to 6.6%.
• 2012 marked the first time Black voter turnout percentage exceeded white turnout.
• Voter turnout is highest for ages 65+ and lowest for ages 18-27.
• Over 900,000 Black voters did not participate in the Georgia gubernatorial election.
• 616,000 Black voters did not participate in the North Carolina election.
• Republicans won the House majority by a 7,000-vote margin across key races.
• Cheri Beasley lost a North Carolina Supreme Court seat by 401 votes.
Here’s something that was done to acquire the Voting Rights that are being dismantled across the country. Roland Martin advocates for “teach-ins” based on the SCLC citizenship education model.
The Citizenship School Program of the Highlander Folk School shaped the grassroots leadership of the Civil Rights Movement. The Voter Education Project (VEP) coordinated the voter registration campaigns of five civil rights groups—the Southern Christian Leadership Conference(SCLC), the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the Congress of Racial Equality, and the National Urban League. These efforts within the Movement enfranchised and empowered a segment of Southern black society that would have been untouched by demonstrations and federal voting legislation. Civil Rights activists in the Deep South, attempting to register voters, recognized the severe inadequacies of public education for black students and built parallel educational institutions designed to introduce black students to their rights as American citizens, develop local leadership and grassroots organizational structures.
American history over the past 100 years has been a complex tapestry of progress, challenges, and social change, with significantly different experiences for African-Americans and whites. To understand this history and the diverse experiences within it, we need to examine key periods and events that have shaped the nation.
The Great Depression and World War II Era (1925-1945)
The Great Depression, beginning in 1929, was a period of severe economic hardship that affected all Americans, but disproportionately impacted African-Americans
Unemployment was widespread, with many people struggling to find work and provide for their families. For African-Americans, this period was particularly challenging due to entrenched segregation and discrimination. The Jim Crow laws in the South enforced a “separate but equal” status that was far from equal, affecting every aspect of life from education to employment
African-Americans faced severe limitations on their voting rights through mechanisms like literacy tests and poll taxes, despite the 15th Amendment’s guarantee of voting rights
World War II brought significant changes. The war effort required the mobilization of all Americans, and African-Americans served in large numbers both in the military and in war-related industries. However, they still faced discrimination and segregation in the armed forces and employment
The Double V Campaign, calling for victory against fascism abroad and racial injustice at home, highlighted the contradictions in America’s democratic ideals and its treatment of African-Americans
Post-War Era and Civil Rights Movement (1945-1970)
The post-war period saw an economic boom that benefited many Americans, particularly whites. The GI Bill provided returning veterans with benefits such as low-cost mortgages and educational opportunities, although these benefits were often less accessible to African-American veterans due to ongoing discrimination
For African-Americans, this era was marked by the intensification of the Civil Rights Movement. Key events included:
The passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965
These events and legislative changes aimed to end racial segregation and discrimination, marking significant progress in the struggle for equality. However, the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968 was a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges and resistance to change
Late 20th Century (1970-1990)
This period saw continued efforts towards desegregation and the implementation of policies aimed at improving the socio-economic status of African-Americans, such as affirmative action. However, economic disparities persisted, with African-Americans facing higher unemployment rates and lower income levels compared to their white counterparts
The Vietnam War and the Cold War significantly impacted American society during this time. The anti-war movement, often intertwined with civil rights activism, highlighted the connections between foreign policy and domestic racial injustices
Recent History (1990-2025)
The past three decades have seen both progress and ongoing challenges for African-Americans:
Increased political representation, culminating in the election of Barack Obama as the first Black President in 2008
Persistent economic disparities, with African-American poverty rates remaining high
Continued issues of racial profiling and police brutality, leading to the emergence of the Black Lives Matter movement in 2013
The Black Lives Matter movement has been instrumental in raising awareness about systemic racism and has led to policy changes in areas such as policing.
Conclusion
If you had lived in America for the last 100 years, your experiences would have varied dramatically based on your race. For African-Americans, it would have been a journey from legalized segregation and widespread discrimination to significant legal and social progress, albeit with ongoing challenges. For white Americans, while also affected by major events like the Great Depression and various wars, the experience would generally have been one of greater privilege and opportunity, particularly in the earlier decades.
The story of America over the past century is one of struggle, progress, and ongoing efforts to live up to the nation’s ideals of equality and justice for all. While significant strides have been made, particularly in legal rights and representation, the persistence of economic disparities and systemic racism demonstrates that there is still work to be done to achieve true equality.
In times like these, when government may not be supportive of us, it is important that we use every communication vehicle available. Many of us are wondering, what is it that we can do to protect our families and community when our government does not care.
When democracy is being stolen by the elected president and a billionaire that bought him the election what are the tools of resistance that are nonviolent?
Things You Can and Need To Do
Nonviolent Tools of Resistance Against Democratic Erosion
When democracy is undermined by an elected leader and powerful financial backers, nonviolent resistance becomes a critical tool for citizens to reclaim their rights and protect democratic institutions. Research and historical evidence show that nonviolent methods are often more effective than violent ones in achieving lasting political and social change. Below are some key tools and strategies for nonviolent resistance:
1. Mass Mobilization and Protests
Organizing peaceful protests and demonstrations is one of the most visible and impactful ways to resist authoritarianism. Large-scale, sustained protests can draw attention to the erosion of democracy and pressure those in power to change course. For example, movements like the Civil Rights Movement in the U.S. and the People Power Revolution in the Philippines successfully used mass mobilization to achieve democratic reforms.
2. Civil Disobedience
Civil disobedience involves deliberately breaking unjust laws or refusing to comply with government policies that undermine democracy. This can include actions like boycotting government programs, refusing to pay fines, or staging sit-ins. Such acts disrupt the normal functioning of an illegitimate regime and highlight its lack of moral authority.
3. Building Broad Coalitions
Uniting diverse groups—across political, social, and economic lines—creates a stronger resistance movement. Broad coalitions can amplify the voices of marginalized communities and demonstrate widespread opposition to anti-democratic actions. This approach is emphasized in the “Democracy Playbook,” which outlines strategies for strengthening democratic institutions and resisting illiberal forces [1].
4. Protecting Voting Rights
Efforts to protect and expand voting access are crucial in resisting democratic backsliding. This includes fighting voter suppression, ensuring fair elections, and educating citizens about their voting rights. Organizations like the ACLU have highlighted the importance of combating disenfranchisement and ensuring that elections remain free and fair.
5. Strategic Use of Media and Technology
Using social media, independent journalism, and other communication tools can help spread awareness, counter disinformation, and mobilize support. Activists can use these platforms to expose corruption, document abuses, and share stories of resistance. However, it is essential to verify information and avoid spreading misinformation, which can undermine the movement’s credibility.
6. Non-Cooperation with Illegitimate Authorities
Refusing to cooperate with leaders or institutions that undermine democracy can weaken their power. This can include strikes, boycotts, or resignations from government positions. Non-cooperation disrupts the functioning of an authoritarian regime and demonstrates widespread dissent.
7. Training and Preparation
Participating in nonviolent resistance training can equip activists with the skills and strategies needed to resist effectively. Democracy training programs prepare individuals to respond to undemocratic power grabs and organize collective action.
8. Supporting Independent Institutions
Strengthening and supporting independent institutions, such as the judiciary, media, and civil society organizations, is vital for resisting authoritarianism. These institutions act as checks on power and provide avenues for accountability [1].
9. Funding and Supporting Opposition Movements
Opposition movements often lack the resources to effectively challenge entrenched power. Providing financial and logistical support to these groups can help level the playing field and ensure they are prepared to advocate for democratic governance.
10. International Solidarity
Building alliances with international organizations, governments, and activists can bring global attention to the erosion of democracy and apply external pressure on authoritarian leaders. This can include sanctions, diplomatic efforts, or public campaigns to hold leaders accountable.
Why Nonviolence Works
Research by Harvard Professor Erica Chenoweth shows that nonviolent resistance is more likely to succeed than violent campaigns. Nonviolent movements are more inclusive, attract broader participation, and are less likely to provoke violent crackdowns that alienate the public.
By employing these tools, citizens can resist the erosion of democracy and work toward restoring a government that reflects the will of the people.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art published a new book: Black American Portraits. I seem to have missed the publication deadline as none of my portraits appear to be in the book.
So to keep you up to date I will be publishing an African American portrait every Tuesday.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art published a new book: Black American Portraits. I seem to have missed the publication deadline as none of my portraits appear to be in the book.
So to keep you up to date I will be publishing an African American portrait every Tuesday.
Carl Richardson Spokane WA 2016 By Robert J. Lloyd
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art published a new book: Black American Portraits. I seem to have missed the publication deadline as none of my portraits appear to be in the book.
So to keep you up to date I will be publishing an African American portrait every Tuesday.
Stephen Marc and 20 plus artists sharing their stories and visions through their art – pictorial, documentary and abstract. Come to the Carl Maxey Center at 3114 E. 5th Ave on Saturday April 9th. Youth can meet with the artists in the exhibition from 12 – 3 pm. Have wine and Lébakes cheesecake with the artists from 5 – 7 pm.
Stephen Marc
Biography
Stephen Marc is a Professor of Art in the Herberger Institute’s School of Art at Arizona State University, an ASU Evelyn Smith Endowed Professor of Art (2021-22), and a 2021 Guggenheim Fellow. Marc began teaching at ASU in 1998, following 20 years at Columbia College Chicago. He received his MFA from Tyler School of Art, Temple University in Philadelphia, PA; and his BA from Pomona College in Claremont, CA.
Marc’s most recent book: American/True Colors (2020) addresses who we are as Americans in a polarized country with changing demographics, from an African American perspective. It was a 2021 IPPY Gold Medalist for best book in the Photography category. Marc’s three earlier books include: Urban Notions (1983), addressing the three Illinois communities where he had family ties; The Black Trans-Atlantic Experience: Street Life and Culture in Ghana, Jamaica, England, and the United States (1992); and Passage on the Underground Railroad (2009), digital composites that provide insight into the historic sites, and the institution of slavery. His Passage on the Underground Railroad is registered as Arizona’s first and only Interpretative Program of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom division of the National Park Service.
Artist Statement
As a documentary/street photographer and digital montage artist, my focus is on politically and culturally relevant gatherings, as part of my ongoing work that collectively addresses who we are as Americans. Since 2019, I have been creating a series of digital “street story montages” along with photographs of public space events and everyday life that explore what is proving to be pivotal time in this country’s history.
American identity is a cultural combination of reality, idealism and myth. How we shape our environment, define ourselves and recognize each other as Americans is culturally complex, socially charged, historically layered, and constantly in flux. As a photographer, I am interested in the photograph as an interpretative document; and as a digital montage artist, exploring the ways and reasons to combine photographs to extend the visual narrative, considering the constructive nature of memory as an informed witness.
This selection of work focuses on the African American community, where most of the photographs come from my recent book: American/True Colors.
In elementary school when your skin is dark and your nose is broad and your hair is kinky, your peers don’t think your life matters. So you find sanctuary in the library. No one beats you up, no one calls you names, you read. And you discover how much there is that you don’t know and you can find it in a book. A teaching career, a military career, an artist’s career, medical technical career, African history, philosophy, literature, world travels. Information made his life matter. Charles made his life matter. Charles Henri Tuggle, 80
Information Made His Life Matter
Charles is part of Hunters Point Shipyard Artists in San Francisco California. Examples of his work are available here. www.shipyardartists.com
A current exhibit of his work is available at the site of a group of 10 Black artists who are with Hunters Point Shipyard artists. Black on Point www.blackonpointsf.org/charles-tuggle
In elementary school when your skin is dark and your nose is broad and your hair is kinky, your peers don’t think your life matters. So you find sanctuary in the library. No one beats you up, no one calls you names, you read. And you discover how much there is that you don’t know and you can find it in a book. A teaching career, a military career, an artist’s career, medical technical career, African history, philosophy, literature, world travels. Information made his life matter. Charles made his life matter. Charles Henri Tuggle, 80
Information Made His Life Matter
Charles is part of Hunters Point Shipyard Artists in San Francisco California. Examples of his work are available here. www.shipyardartists.com
A current exhibit of his work is available at the site of a group of 10 Black artists who are with Hunters Point Shipyard artists. Black on Point www.blackonpointsf.org/charles-tuggle
