A Message From The Publisher
By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.
Presidents’ Day, traditionally a celebration of the leaders who have shaped the United States, carries a complex and often painful significance for the Black community. While it offers an opportunity to reflect on presidential legacies, it also necessitates a critical examination of the systemic injustices perpetuated by many of these leaders.
Historically, numerous U.S. presidents were directly involved in the enslavement of Black people. Twelve presidents owned slaves during their lifetimes. Eight of those presidents owned slaves while in office and Thomas Jefferson owned the most slaves at over 600 while also opposing the institution of slavery. This stark reality casts a long shadow over the reverence traditionally afforded to these figures. The very symbols of our nation’s highest office is one of the most hypocritical, tainted by histories of exploitation and dehumanization.
Abraham Lincoln, often celebrated as the “Great Emancipator,” issued the Emancipation Proclamation—a critical step toward ending slavery. However, his personal writings suggest that his motivations were more about preserving the Union than a genuine commitment to abolition. This reality makes his legacy more complex and encourages deeper thought about his decisions.
In more recent history, the election of Barack Obama as the first Black president was a momentous occasion, symbolizing progress, and the potential for unity. Yet, his tenure also highlighted the limitations and challenges inherent in addressing systemic racism within the existing political framework in this country. Obama himself often emphasized his role as a president “for all Americans”, which sometimes led to criticism that specific concerns of the Black community were not sufficiently prioritized or addressed.
The meeting of Presidents’ Day and Black History Month in February offers an emotional opportunity to reassess our national narrative. While Black History Month celebrates the achievements and resilience of African Americans, Presidents’ Day prompts us to scrutinize the roles that our leaders have played in both perpetuating and challenging systemic racism. This juxtaposition urges a more comprehensive understanding of our history—one that honors the contributions of Black individuals and critically examines the legacies of those in power.
In recent times, Presidents’ Day has also become a platform for protest and reflection, especially when current leadership appears to diverge from the principles of justice and equality. For instance, Black ministers and civic leaders organized rallies to voice dissent against policies perceived as undermining civil liberties and social progress. These demonstrations signify a collective reckoning with the direction in which “our” leaders are steering the country.
As we observed Presidents’ Day, it’s essential that we don’t move beyond critical reflection to engage in honest dialogues about the complicated legacies of our presidents. Recognizing their accomplishments, their transgressions and their blindness to what diversity, equity and inclusion means for the greater good of this country. This analytical approach not only honors the complexities of our history but also empowers us to strive toward a more equitable future.
In essence, Presidents’ Day should not merely be a day of celebration but a day of critical reflection—a time to evaluate how far we’ve come, how stagnant we remain, acknowledge the injustices that persist, and commit to the ongoing pursuit of liberty and justice for all or we all may die trying.
