In a bold and necessary stand against the erasure of our collective heritage, America’s leading civil rights organizations have launched an urgent nationwide affirmation: Black history is American history — and its protection is inseparable from the defense of democracy itself.

As political forces attempt to dismantle the critical civic institutions that honor Black legacy — from the National Museum of African American History and Culture to diversity initiatives across government agencies — a coalition of powerhouses including the African American Policy Forum, National Urban League, National Council of Negro Women, National Action Network, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, Legal Defense Fund (LDF), and the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights are rallying to safeguard the truth of America's story.

This monumental show of unity coincides with the launch of the #HandsOffOurHistory and Freedom To Learn National Week of Action, culminating in a major demonstration in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, May 3. Supporters nationwide are invited to participate locally by visiting museums, libraries, and exhibitions that uplift Black achievements — sharing their solidarity online with the hashtag #HandsOffOurHistory. 

Why This Matters Now More Than Ever

In the face of sweeping executive orders and mounting censorship efforts, this coalition's message is clear: without Black history, America loses its soul — and its democracy.

"Black history is American history, and the Legal Defense Fund (LDF) is proud to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ensuring our past is neither forgotten nor erased," declared Janai Nelson, LDF’s President and Director-Counsel.
"We cannot acknowledge America's greatness without recognizing the accomplishments that were made possible by the civil rights movement and subsequent efforts to ensure equal access to opportunity for all. We are proud to join these outstanding organizations to proclaim #HandsOffOurHistory and to protect and defend the people, institutions, books, artifacts, and resources that uphold the truth of our history."

The full affirmation, a stirring call to action, insists:

“Without Black history, we lose the important stories of resistance undertaken to defend our democracy and the tools we need to resist today.”

At its heart, this is about preserving not just historical facts, but the living spirit of freedom movements that continue to empower all marginalized communities.

Join the Movement — Wherever You Are

Even if you can't make it to Washington, D.C., your voice matters.
Visit your local museum. Browse the African American collections at your library.
Attend an exhibition honoring Black lives, art, and culture.
Post your journey online using #HandsOffOurHistory and #FreedomToLearn. 

More details about how you can join both virtual and in-person activations are available at: www.freedomtolearn.net.

Houston Style Magazine proudly stands with those committed to preserving the true, full story of America — a story that shines brightest when every chapter is told. #TeamStyleMag #HSM