February is Black History Month, and we remember the countless individuals who fought and advocated for a more just and equitable society.
See, it’s a spirit that burns in some people — a flame for justice. That’s why this month, I want to reflect on someone whose organizing and teachings have been extremely impactful on my life.
During the 1960s, my uncle, Herman Holloway Sr., served in the House of Representatives then was elected to the Delaware State Senate, the first African American to accomplish that. During his tenure, some of his biggest victories were in the form of his socially progressive legislation.
One of those landmark pieces of legislation was the Public Accommodations Act, which was passed in 1963.
It barred racial discrimination in public accommodations, such as in hotels, motels, restaurants, theaters and all other public accommodations engaged in interstate commerce, truly amazing legislation that was rooted in protecting the entire community.
Now, if we jump ahead to 2022, we are still advocating for a more just and equitable society.
Just a few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to moderate a discussion between victims from Hurricane Ida and the agencies who are assigned to help them.
We heard from firsthand accounts of the horror of the flooding and the struggle to find stable housing since. One resident described having to sleep in a car with her family due to the fact the temporary hotel accommodation expired Oct. 15, 2021.
The HOMES campaign rolled up their sleeves and got to work with community leaders like Stacey Henry to send a letter to officials asking for solutions to ensure all victims are placed in safe and affordable housing.
From housing, to education, environmental justice and police reform, we can’t get discouraged in our fight for justice.
As we hear stories like this, we are called to mobilize people, harness our collective power and bring about change. It starts with people like you, advocates who are focused on shifting power and aiming to create lasting change.
We are building the power to make change based on the front-line communities, and we need your help.
Coby Owens is a native Wilmingtonian and an advocate and national organizer. As a human rights and civil rights activist, he has led mobilizations and nonviolent direct-action campaigns across the country.
