From NLC CEO & Executive Director Clarence E. Anthony:
Recognizing Black history has grown from a weeklong grassroots recognition of the contributions of Black social, cultural and political leaders in 1926 to a monthlong international celebration today. A celebration that started in Chicago, spread to college campuses and was officially recognized by President Ford in 1976, and is now recognized in Canada, Europe and Africa. The contributions of the Black diaspora run deep and wide.
As we celebrate Black History Month this year, I’m spending a lot of time thinking about the leaders who came before me. Those giants, big and small, forged a path that allowed me to go from working the farmlands of South Florida to leading in city hall in my hometown and even further to the halls and offices of NLC, the White House and Capitol Hill. They are well-known names from history, such as King, Angelou and Robinson, and they are also personal to me.
Here are a few lessons society has learned from each of these icons that have also helped to shape the leader I am today. More than ever, it is incumbent upon us as local leaders to carry forward and build upon their visions of a brighter future for everyone across our great nation.
Lesson 1: Do it together.
Many of our great Black leaders faced challenges in pushing forward a new idea, and many of them created a community to achieve their goals. The power of ‘doing it together’ was most evident when we banded together to push for direct funding to our communities and saw success with the passage of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and the Infrastructure Investment Jobs Act (IIJA). This month, I am inspired by all we are prepared to do together for our cities, towns and villages. As a united front, there is no challenge or obstacle we cannot overcome.
When we remain resilient in the face of difficult challenges and stay focused, we will achieve our goals. The lessons of personal and community resilience were built up and shared with us all because of a commitment to each other, our family and our community. We know that we are stronger today than we were yesterday and tomorrow promises to be even closer to the future our ancestors wanted for us.
Lesson 2: There is power in sharing our traditions and lessons.
As local leaders today, we have a great responsibility: to continue the tradition of sharing the lessons we’ve learned and preparing the next generation to lead. This year, we should celebrate Black History Month by mentoring and supporting the next generation of young Black leaders in our communities. I see the work you are doing to create strong communities for every resident and that delivers for everyone.
Hear more of my reflections on Black History Month below.
Pictured at the top: NLC CEO & Executive Director Clarence E. Anthony visits his hometown of South Bay during NLC’s Centennial Roadshow in 2024.
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