Blessed New Year – 2023

A Blessed New Year to All!

In February 2022, we began a series on Black Women in America. I had been wanting to do a series on black women for a long time. I was hoping to do the journey in one year, but there are so many wonderful women who have made great contributions to society that I could go on for five years at least!!! So, I decided to concentrate on Black Female Firsts in all areas of life. 

We began in February with the stories of black women firsts in education – both those who received PhD’s and educators. We moved on to writers, artists, scientists, inventors, and women in medicine. Next, we covered only a few of the many talented black women in sports- both winter and summer sports. After that we covered the stories of black women in entertainment – television and music. We learned that in television up until the 1960’s black men and women were mostly portrayed in servant roles. Thanks to courageous actors who insisted on normal roles, that began to change.

During the holiday season we looked at Christmas music written and performed by black artists. I learned that Kwanzaa is a special celebration of African American culture that is observed starting right after Christmas. 

Now we are in a new year. I hope to continue with our stories of Black Women Firsts in America. We will continue with black women in entertainment in the movies and on stage. In February – Black History Month – we will cover the stories of activists. Many women sacrificed to raise the bar for African Americans. Then we will continue – probably for another year!! –  on black women in many other fields including politics, law, business, religion, flying and space, awards, and other interesting occupations like police and firefighters.

I think you will agree that black women are among the most faithful, creative, intelligent, successful, and steadfast followers of Christ in the world.

I pray that you will have a very blessed New Year. May we be a part of making life better this year for all people!