Empowered San Dimas

02/12/2021

APOLOGIES FOR THE LATE POST:

February is Black History Month, which is an opportunity for us as a nation, community, and individuals to recognize and honor the accomplishments of exceptional Black Americans. Celebrating Black History helps combat racism by educating people about the successes of people of various races and celebrating the diversity that makes our country great.

There are countless Black Americans to be celebrated. Here are a few "firsts" we'd like to acknowledge:

Matthew Henson was the first African-American Arctic explorer. Henson is believed to be the first person to ever reach the North Pole during a 1908-1909 expedition.

Bessie Coleman was the first African-American woman and first Native American to hold a pilot's license. She was known for her bravery as she performed dangerous tricks during air shows.

Gwendolyn Brooks was the first Black Pullitzer Prize winner. Brooks received a number of other accolades for her poetry and was also the first Black woman inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters.

William Hastie was the first African-American federal judge and federal appellate judge. He was also the first African-American to be the Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman elected to Congress, representing New York's 12th district. In 1972, Chisholm became the first Black presidential candidate for a major political party.

Dr. Mae Jemison was the first Black woman astronaut. Jemison has also practiced as an engineer and a physician, founded a tech research company and educational non-profit, and written a number of inspirational children's books.

Colin Powell was the first Black Secretary of State, serving under President George W. Bush. Prior to that, Powell served in the military for 35 years, reaching the rank of general. He served as the National Security Advisor and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Kamala Harris is the first female, Black, and Asian-American Vice President of the United States. An attorney, Harris previously served as California's District Attorney and state Senator before becoming President Biden's Vice President

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH. Post and share the achievements of Black Americans below.

01/31/2021

This isn’t a feel good story...it’s a testament to the broken public education system

"I was taught if your hands find something to do, do it," he said.

01/18/2021

Today we observe Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and celebrate the birthday of a great man who through a lifetime of service, sacrifice and protest, helped fight for civil rights and usher in change and a fight for equality that is continued today. Ironically, in his time, Dr. King was not the most loved, and was a controversial man who dared to challenge injustice that many disagreed even existed. He was imprisoned and eventually assassinated for his radical choice to call for change and choose love for all people - regardless of the color of their skin. In today’s America, his legacy lives on and his message seems equally as important in 2021 as it was back then. Let’s celebrate with choosing truth and love neighbors! We love you and we see you. ❤️

12/26/2020

Kwanzaa celebrates African family, community, and culture. It is based on African harvest celebrations, and the name comes from the Swahili for “first fruits of harvest.” It takes place from December 26 to January 1, a time that in some African cultures is called “the time when the edges of the year meet” and is traditionally spent in celebration, focus, and assessment. Each night, one or more of seven candles arranged in a candle holder—one black, three red, and three green—is lit, and one of seven principles (Nguzo Saba) is discussed: unity, self-determination, collective work, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. These are considered the highest ethical and cultural values and are also known as the seven principles of African American community development.

12/11/2020

Hanukkah is an 8 day Festival of Lights that celebrates the 164 BCE defeat of the Maccabees over the Syrian King Antiochus. On each night, a candle is added to the menorah, gifts are exchanged, and families celebrate together to remember the victory for religious freedom and darkness overcoming the light. 🕯

11/26/2020

We are thankful for YOU!

11/14/2020

Diwali symbolizes new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness. For our neighbors celebrating this year - Light it up!

11/12/2020

Originally entitled “Armistice Day” in 1919, the official name and date became November 11th “Veteran’s Day” in 1954 by President Eisenhower to commemorate the end of World War I and honor our armed forces and the many sacrifices made by our troops. This important day is a chance for America to offer sincere thanks to the great heroes in Our country who serve and have served in our armed forces - to protect our freedom and democracy.

“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude.”
- Harry S. Truman

11/08/2020

"I've always believed we can define America in one word: Possibilities. That in America everyone should be given the opportunity to go as far as their dreams and God-given ability will take them." --President-elect Joe Biden

Congratulations to President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, who (in her words) will be the first woman VP but certainly not the last! God bless America.

11/01/2020

Day of the Dead originated several thousand years ago with the Aztec, Toltec, and other Nahua people, who considered mourning the dead disrespectful as dead were still members of the community, kept alive in memory and spirit—and during Día de los Mu***os, they temporarily returned to Earth.

Today’s Día de los Mu***os celebration is a mash-up of pre-Hispanic religious rites and Christian feasts. It takes place on November 1 and 2—All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on the Catholic calendar—around the time of the fall maize harvest.

On an altar, or ofrenda, families place pictures of loved ones that have passed. Pan de muerte (bread of the dead) is usually enjoyed on this day - and some place favorite foods and drinks along with favorite things during life. Marigold flowers help lead the dead home and back to their resting places. They are used to help decorate altars along with sugar skulls (calaveras). The beautiful colors, costumes, festivities, dancing and revelry of Dia de Los Mu***os events help celebrate those who passed to keep them close and feel as loved in death as they were in life.

10/31/2020

Happy Halloween, ghouls and ghosts! Stay safe tonight!!! 🎃