Today marks the 55th Anniversary of a day that forever changed the trajectory of our nation. Fifty-five years ago, a courageous black domestic named Rosa Parks stared the Jim Crow South and its separate but equal rhetoric in the eyes and said enough is enough. Through the quiet defiance of Sister Rosa's refusal to give up her seat to a white patron on that bus in Montgomery, Alabama, people began to say hey, I am somebody and I matter. Rosa Parks has been named the Mother of the Civil Rights Movement. Rosa's actions were the perfect backdrop to introduce a then unknown Baptist minister who would emerge and also take our nation to even greater heights.
I am thankful for the many contributions of Rosa Parks and the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. However, there are countless unnamed participants that rallied for the cause as diligently and passionately as did Rosa and Martin. Let's not forget to honor them as well. As a black male living and working in the south, I am so appreciative for the courage that these saints exemplified.
Today, December 1, is also World Aids Day. HIV and AIDS is no longer the death sentence that it once was, nor is it something that we can just sweep under the mat, especially in the black community. Somewhere out there, someone's mom, dad, brother, sister, son, daughter, cousin, friend and significant other has been afflicted by this disease. Though they be afflicted they are not victims. There are thousands of medical practitioners, scientists, social workers and other individuals and organizations at work to protect these individuals, and help them maintain their dignity and human rights. In your prayers and meditations, as we celebrate Rosa Parks, the Matriarch of Civil Rights, let us also remember those who are affected and effected by AIDS and HIV.
Peace,
Karsten
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