On Wednesday, November 9, 12:00 – 2:00 pm, NewBridge Madison , Madison Senior Center and Exact Sciences will sponsor an event to honor Black veterans. A Salute to Black Veterans will be held at the Radisson Hotel at 517 Grand Canyon Drive. This is a free luncheon for Black Veterans. Registration is required. All ages are invited; all branches of the U.S. are welcome.
For centuries Black men and women have bravely fought times of war and military conflict for the United States of America. They have bravely laid down their lives with valor and dignity despite persistent racism and discrimination. They have been denied promotions and Medal of Honor awards.
In 1948, President Harry S. Truman signed Executive Order 9981 formally ending segregation in the Armed Forces. This was a step in the right direction, but a signed piece of paper does not change learned behavior and societal norms. Racism robbed many Black service members of awards for actions of valor in combat.
In August 2021, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin took steps to ensure that the valorous actions of Black service members receive full consideration for possible upgrade to the Medal of Honor. The upgrade review must be finished within five years.
“Securing the deserved honors for past victims of discrimination is not just about righting the wrongs of history, it’s also telling those who are serving today that they will not be forgotten.” (American Legion)
The event will kick off with a Presentation of Colors, by Gerald Hook, 3rd District Wisconsin American Legion and music by Musician Composer Leotha Stanley. Speaking after the meal will be Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway, Wisconsin State Representative Shelia Stubbs, Mt. Zion Baptist Church Pastor Dr. Marcus Allen, Sr. and four veterans from different branches of the U.S. military.
Original source can be found here.
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