By Samuel Merrill
As we close out the observance and acknowledgement of Black History Month, I want to talk about the importance of engagement, commitment, and action in the ongoing fight for equity and justice. The struggle is not new, and the fight must be fought on all fronts.
Today, we find ourselves at a critical juncture. Across the country, we see a growing backlash against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts. There are attacks on Black and Brown communities through efforts of restrictive immigration and birthright policies, on the LGBTQ+ community through the erosion of transgender rights, and on hardworking individuals through layoffs of federal workers. These actions are not isolated; they are deliberate attempts to dismantle progress. And in moments like these, history reminds us of the importance of standing up, speaking out, and acting boldly.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on the historical context of the Field Negro versus the House Negro. Enslaved people who worked in the fields endured the harshest conditions, extreme labor, brutal punishment, and unbearable hardship. The House Negro, while also enslaved, worked in closer proximity to the master and often experienced a different, though still oppressive, reality. The system used this DIVIDE to weaken resistance and maintain control. BUT what’s most important is this: no matter where they labored, they were still enslaved. Today, we face a modern version of these divisions—whether through class, access, or privilege— the truth remains: injustice anywhere threatens justice everywhere. We must fight from every vantage point.
So, what does this mean for us today?
- Each one, teach one. If you have knowledge, share it. If you have access, open doors. If you have power, use it to uplift others.
- Put people UP on Game. We must be informed and educate others about the policies and actions that threaten our communities, workplace, and environment.
- Stand up and say something, do something. Silence is complicity. Whether in the workplace, the voting booth, or the streets, we must advocate for justice.
- Make a commitment to work together. The fight is not meant to be fought alone. Unity is our strength.
The call to action is clear: One person does not have to do everything, but everyone must do something. Change happens when we collectively take responsibility for justice, fairness, and progress.
So, I ask you: How will you contribute? What will you do to ensure that the fight for equity and justice continues?
HISTORY is WATCHING. The FUTURE is WAITING. BUT the time to ACT is NOW.
