ASALH: Association for the Study of African American Life and History

1 week ago

Oseola McCarty’s life is a powerful testament to the value of hard work and generosity. Born in 1908 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, she worked as a washerwoman for much of her life, earning modest wages but saving every penny she could. Despite the financial challenges she faced, McCarty’s dedication to her work allowed her to accumulate a significant sum. In 1995, at the age of 87, she made headlines when she donated nearly her entire life savings—$150,000—to the University of Southern Mississippi. The donation was designated to fund scholarships for financially disadvantaged students, with a special focus on African Americans, reflecting McCarty’s belief in the transformative power of education.Her incredible act of generosity not only inspired countless people but also underscored the essential contributions of Black women in the labor movement, whose work is often underappreciated. McCarty’s donation highlighted the impact of individual labor in creating lasting change. In recognition of her selflessness, McCarty received numerous accolades, including an honorary doctorate from Harvard University and the honor of carrying the Olympic torch in 1996. Her legacy serves as a reminder that even those who work behind the scenes, like McCarty, can make profound contributions to society and leave a lasting impact on future generations.#AfricanAmericansAndLabor #ASALH #oseolamccarty Learn More: www.philanthropyroundtable.org/hall-of-fame/oseola-mccarty/ ... See MoreSee Less

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ASALH: Association for the Study of African American Life and History

1 week ago

Did you know? There are 4,000+ emojis—including vampires and fairies—but ZERO representing natural Black hairstyles like afros, locs, braids, or cornrows. 92% of people use emojis daily—yet Black beauty remains left out.That’s why Dove (co-founder of @CROWNact) partnered with @RISE365 to launch #CodeMyCrown, advocating for 4 new emojis to celebrate Black hair in digital spaces.🗣️ Join the movement! Comment #CodeMyCrown on Dove’s post. ... See MoreSee Less

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ASALH: Association for the Study of African American Life and History

1 week ago

Meet the Minds Behind the Words! Join us at the ASALH 110th Annual Meeting & Conference for the In-Person Author’s Book Signing on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 6:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. EST at the Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park in Atlanta, Georgia.Celebrate the legacy of great leaders like Bayard Rustin and Mary McLeod Bethune as we honor Black history through the power of storytelling. Connect with distinguished authors, get your favorite books signed, and engage in a night of literature and culture.Register Now: asalh.org/conference/in-person-authors-book-signing/ ... See MoreSee Less

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ASALH: Association for the Study of African American Life and History

2 weeks ago

The Freedom House Ambulance Service was more than just a pioneering emergency medical team—it was a radical intervention in a healthcare system that had long failed Black communities. Before Freedom House, ambulance services were often rudimentary, with police officers or funeral home workers providing minimal medical assistance. Trained extensively in advanced life support, CPR, and other emergency medical procedures, Freedom House paramedics set the national standard for pre-hospital care. Their work laid the foundation for modern emergency medical services (EMS), influencing policies and training programs across the country. Yet, their contributions were largely unrecognized for decades, overshadowed by systemic racism and the eventual takeover of emergency services by the city’s predominantly white institutions.Despite its untimely dissolution in 1975, the legacy of Freedom House continues to inspire a new generation of paramedics and emergency responders. Many of its members went on to shape the future of EMS, proving that their expertise and dedication could not be erased. In recent years, Freedom House’s story has gained renewed recognition, with scholars, medical professionals, and historians acknowledging its profound impact on emergency medicine. Pittsburgh has begun to honor its pioneering paramedics, ensuring that their trailblazing work is no longer forgotten. Their story serves as a reminder of both the resilience of Black communities in the face of systemic barriers and the need to continue fighting for equitable healthcare access today.Watch Freedom House Documentary: www.wqed.org/freedomhouse/ ... See MoreSee Less

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All Members Convening

All Members Convening

April 30 @ 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm EDT

All Members Convening

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