By: Brandi Hunter-Davenport
When you reflect on history that has formed this country and the global world, you realize many miles have been traveled, yet there are many more to go. We can’t change or rewrite history. What we have experienced, individually and collectively, has shaped us. And we can’t lose track of those moments. We each have a distinct responsibility in knowing and sharing our history. To quote the late, Dr. Maya Angelou, “No man can know where he is going unless he knows exactly where he has been and exactly how he arrived at his present place.”
The Philadelphia Tribune understands this. For more than 100 years, they have carved lanes that allow places for African American stories, thoughts, viewpoints and lived experiences to be shared, broadly. They have provided a space that sparks conversation, healthy discourse and given us a platform that highlights the contributions and strides of African Americans in politics, education, healthcare, technology, entertainment, business and industry, and beyond.
During a time where there are still those working to silence voices of African Americans and rewrite (or even erase) history, The Philadelphia Tribune continues to empower, remember and share the rich culture, heritage and dynamics of African American people.
On February 16, they hosted their annual Christopher J. Perry/Carter G. Woodson Black History Awards, paying homage to the significant contributions of African Americans. This year’s honorees included Estelle Richman, executive director of the Coalition to Save Lives, commending her more than 30 years of dedicated public service. She was joined by the Reverend Alyn Waller, senior pastor of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, who was also honored for his devoted ministry and service to communities at every level.
The keynote message was delivered by Reverend Howard John Wesley of Virginia’s Alfred Street Baptist Church. Rev. Wesley spoke of the importance of knowing the price of privilege to understand the true value of the moments we are living in.
To view the full 2023 Black History Month celebration, click here.
We recognize The Philadelphia Tribune, a true pioneer in media, for their efforts to shine a light on the immeasurable contributions of African Americans to the world. We thank them for who they are and what they stand for. We are proud to partner with them and honor their living legacy.