For Hope. For Progress. For Freedom.

I’ll say it plainly: slavery is one of this nation’s original sins.

While our nation still is feeling the generational ripple effects and affects of the enslavement of Africans, from economic and health disparities to inequitable educational resources and the lack of access to a balanced justice system, one thing still remains true about Our People - we are the heartbeat and soul of America; her cultural trends and societal progression will always be vetted by Us.

As we celebrate today, Juneteenth, to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved Africans in America, I am joining the grassroots movement that calls on those who can to donate just $19 to non-profit organizations who are on the frontlines of fighting for a more equitable and a more just society for Americans of Color.

In joining this movement, I will be supporting the follow five local and national organizations and encourage all those who have the means to support their own organizations of choice:

• The Excellence in Education Foundation for the Prince George’s County Public Schools, Inc., our school system's charitable organization that supports funding scholarships for our county’s students;

• United Communities Against Poverty, Inc., a Prince George’s County based non-profit that advocates for anti-poverty resources for families and communities in need;

• The Education Trust, one of nation’s leading non-profits advocating for equitable educational achievement and success for students of color;

• The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc., one of the leading legal organizations fighting for racial justice; and,

• The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), one of the most prominent organizations fighting for the rights of Black/African American voters, women, immigrants, members of the LGBTQ community, and more.

For hope.

For progress.

For freedom.

-kaw