Celebrating Black Philanthropy Month
Last week’s message paid tribute to the generous aspects of American culture that developed early in our nation’s history. This spirit of giving and civic engagement is worthy of celebration and continued commitment by us and generations to come.
There also is a more a more challenging part of the story. While early America was a “land of opportunity” for many, its positive promise was denied to others, particularly the enslaved peoples who suffered in a system ironically dedicated to freedom and liberty.
Our national origins were compromised in many ways. Our founding documents required concessions about slavery for the country to be born. Our national character was undermined by the glaring disparity between the noble ideals of the Declaration of Independence and the legalized oppression endured by African Americans. Chapter 8 of WISEgenerosity considers the amazing Social Generosity undertaken by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the rest of the Civil Rights Movement to correct these disparities.
With these thoughts around America’s 250th birthday in mind, this message celebrates August as Black Philanthropy Month and pays tribute to the under-recognized generosity in adversity that is a central part of the African American experience.
In the realm of charity and philanthropy, Black Americans responded to discrimination and segregation with powerful versions of the self-help and civic associations that Alexis de Tocqueville described in my last post. Denied equal opportunity and access to basic needs and services, these communities banded together and served each other faithfully and effectively for generations.
The first Black “mutual aid” organization, The Free African Society, was launched in Philadelphia in 1787 — the same year and the same place in which the United States Constitution was written. Similar groups spread to cities across America. Members paid monthly dues to support widows and orphans, to cover health expenses for those in need, and to ensure dignified burials. Churches, fraternal orders, and other groups likewise brought strength in association and community support. If you are curious to learn more, Collective Courage: A History of African American Cooperative Economic Thought and Practice by Jessica Gordon Nembhard is considered authoritative on this subject.
Many, many millions of generous Black Americans have contributed to their communities and to American life throughout our history. The story of Oseola McCarty shared in chapter 11 of the WISEgenerosity book is one of my favorites. A humble washer-woman became celebrated internationally as a model of thrift and generosity in 1995 when she donated her life savings, $150,000, to establish scholarships for Black students at the University of Southern Mississippi. Ms. McCarty is a wonderful example of giving that truly is W.I.S.E.: Well-grounded, Inspired, Satisfying, and Effective.
In addition to grassroots giving, there is a strong history of prominent charity and philanthropy among African Americans. From pioneering Madame C.J. Walker (haircare entrepreneur and America’s first self-made female millionaire) to modern examples like Robert F. Smith and Oprah Winfrey, successful Black women and men have dedicated their time, talent, and treasure to helping others. As Black Philanthropy Month comes to a close, WISEgenerosity honors the important historical legacy and vibrant current activity in African American giving. Particularly when considering adverse conditions, economic hardships, and social barriers, one can argue convincingly that Black America has been the most generous element of American society throughout our history.
All the best,
Chris Gabriel,
Founder, WISEgenerosity
