Despite rumors to the contrary, President Trump did, in fact, sign the annual Black History Month proclamation, as every president has every February for over a half-century. But it's reasonable to wonder if this might be the last such proclamation, as Trump's orders to end Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training across government agencies, and his foot-soldiers' cancellation of any kind of "diversity"-related events, roll forth from the White House at breakneck speed. In the midst of all the chaos, and as those who struggle to resist the worst consequences of Trump's return to power get organized, it's vital that the important historical and moral lessons for the fight for social justice which Black History Month puts in the forefront of our consciousness receive the attention they deserve. So, for example, the writings of longtime RS contributors Reverend Andrew Wilkes (here and here) and Lawrence Ware (here and here) are much worth pondering. The examples of sacrifice and service which the Black struggle provides to White people across the United States at this time of crisis are too numerous count; find them, and share them, and most of all take them to heart, as we fight to stop that which aims to turn us against one other, and reverse all that religious socialists and caring liberals and all people of good will have accomplished in years past.

Image credit: Boston University School of Social Work