The Historic Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church is the oldest African American Church in St. Petersburg. Photo by Leah Burdick.
This month marks the 100th year of Black History Month. The Historic Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church honored the milestone during its Sunday service.
Inside the church you’re greeted with hugs at the door and a magazine honoring influential leaders in the African-American community.
During the service, the reverend read a book about African-American culture to children before introducing the guest speaker.
DeMark Liggins is the National President and CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.
“We did not get here because we were upset and decided to just go out and cry and complain in public. We came together with patience and strategy. It’s important to remember that,” Liggins said.
He said he feels inspired to be present for the 100th anniversary and emphasized the importance of honoring history.
“This is a milestone that is needed. Long before black folks got permission from the government we have been celebrating our history. Long before other institutions wanted to affirm our dignity, we knew that it was important to affirm it ourselves. Long before our stories were welcome in textbooks we carried it to our families, faith and our communities,” Liggins said. “Carter G. Woodson didn’t create this holiday or observance to divide our country; he did it because America already divided itself from the truth. Her history was incomplete, her history was selective. ”
Joy Dixon is the president of the Committee Organizing Assistance and Community Help Foundation, also known as the COACH Foundation.
“They say Black history, but we are a part of American history. I encourage everyone—if not today, sometime this month and throughout the year—to recognize the inventions and contributions Black Americans have made to society,” Dixon said.
She said your never to young to start fighting for what you believe in and highlighted how the youth is important in this.
“If your an artist create your art, If your a musician write a song. If your a person who prefers to send letters there is a place for everybody. Whenever you think is your skillset there is a way for you to make a difference,” Dixon said.
Both Liggins and Dixon noted that Black History Month was once recognized as only a week, reminding the community of the progress made through persistence and collective effort.