Often overlooked, healthcare is an essential part to history and preservation of a people. From advancements in medicine and innovation for a healthier community, the health of a community is indicative of their continued success and resilience through times of struggles. The African American community in particular is a shining example of these attributes. The … Continue reading Spotlight on Black Healthcare in Iowa
Black History Month 2026
When Negro History Week was established by Carter Woodson in 1926, intense systemic racism, income inequality, deeply entrenched segregation, and high levels of violence against Black Americans were all part . Today, in 2026, after decades of progress, we're witnessing a recommitment to systemic racism, income inequality, segregation by race and class are becoming more … Continue reading Black History Month 2026
Black Church Musings
Last weekend I returned to my alma mater, Grinnell College, for Black Alumni Weekend. Yes: Even in the face of attacks on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), higher-ed, and increasingly pervasive anti-Blackness, we still got to celebrate ourselves in public. There is an old adage that where you spend your money reflects your values. … Continue reading Black Church Musings
Finding Hate In Our History
This post has been two years in the making. It has been a tremendous challenge to gather the words to confront this topic: What happens when you find hate in your history? In 2022 and 2024, summer interns encountered anti LGBTQ+ bigotry while researching Black churches in Central Iowa. It was hard to know what … Continue reading Finding Hate In Our History