In 1958, the African-American author and poet James Weldon Johnson wrote a song titled Lift Every Voice and Sing as an ode to being African-American. The song quickly became an anthem of the Civil Rights Movement. Its lyrics speak of a dream deeply rooted in the Negro soul, an optimistic and unyielding hope for a better future. To this day, it stands as one of the most powerful songs in modern African-American history.
This week, the nation will commemorate a day known as “Black Friday,” the fourth Friday in November, when millions of Americans will come together to remember those who were impacted by the Civil Rights Movement. For those of African descent, Black Friday holds a special significance. It is a time to celebrate the progress that has been made, while at the same time acknowledging the ongoing fight for racial justice and equality.
For African Americans, the history of Black Friday is deeply connected to slavery and the fight for freedom. In 1867, President Andrew Johnson declared the last day of November to be observed as a day of thanksgiving—not for just having successfully gone through the Civil War, but specifically to celebrate the emancipation of the enslaved black population. On that day, freed slaves gathered in churches to give thanks, while many former slaveholders refused to recognize the holiday.
From this point on, the fourth Friday in November became known as “Black Friday” and served as a time for freed slaves to express their gratitude, as well as their disappointment with the continued discrimination and inequality that plague their communities.
Today, the meaning of Black Friday has evolved. It is no longer a holiday set aside specifically for African Americans, but a collective remembrance for all those who have been persecuted and oppressed in the name of freedom. It is a day to honor the struggle for civil rights and justice, as well as to celebrate the progress made and maintain a hopeful attitude for the future.
On this day, millions of people across America gather in churches, schools and city parks to celebrate. Some might march, while others watch and listen to powerful speeches. Many come together to share stories and reflections, to remember past struggles and honor those who are still striving for a better tomorrow. For those of African descent, it is a day of self-reflection and reflection on the injustices of the world.
Matters of racial issues are so often silenced and ignored in todays society. Through commemorating Black Friday, a day of peace, coming together and self-reflection, we will be able to make a small difference in the fight for true racial justice and equality. This is the legacy of the men and women who trailblazed the way for the struggles of today. We must honor them by continuing to speak out against intolerance in all its forms and standing united in our pursuit of justice. Let us lift our voices and sing of a better tomorrow, free from fear and discrimination.
