It always seems that the tragedies of black Americans – instead of our triumphs – remain at the center of the media.

Discussions of our history focus on the tragedies of slavery, but seldom mention the ancient African civilizations ruling the world by the might of their wealth, intelligence, and strength.

Archaeological studies of these civilizations have produced groundbreaking discoveries and facts that somehow never reach the dinner table in black American homes.

Media reports on black America today often remind us of a traumatic past, highlighting criminal activity and confrontations with law enforcement. Where are the stories of the untold numbers of black Americans keeping our communities safe or of those who overcame tragedy to lead successful lives today?

I have always been intrigued by the stories of Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and several other communities where black Americans of our past thrived during some of the most racially divided and tumultuous times in our history.

I also enjoy the running stories about black rulers during the civil rights era. But what we don’t hear in the media are stories like this: In the late 1800s, long before the civil rights movement of the 1960s, black Americans were elected to Congress.

The list of black American triumphs is long, but let me share a short list of people who stand out for defying the odds.

Frederick Douglass not only escaped slavery, but he also taught himself – and others – to read and write. He became a national leader of the abolitionist movement in Massachusetts and New York. His anti-slavery speeches and writings are still read and cited to this day. His leadership gave him the opportunity to meet with President Abraham Lincoln, which should remind us that the federal government exists to preserve life, liberty and property and is established to protect the rights of all individuals.

Mary McLeod Bethune, the daughter of former slaves, has become a nationally recognized educator, philanthropist, humanitarian, and civil rights and women leader. Her passion for public service and education led her to serve as an advisor to five US presidents and chair FDR’s “Black Cabinet”. She later founded and led several organizations and an HBCU in Florida. His exceptional leadership and influence in education and across the public sector has shown that individuals and families can dramatically improve not only their own lives, but the well-being of entire communities.

Just a few weeks ago, Winsome Sears became the first black woman to be elected Lieutenant Governor of Virginia. A former U.S. Navy, businesswoman and member of the General Assembly from Virginia, Sears took office advocating for better compensation for teachers and law enforcement, lower taxes and more health centers for veterans. His commitment to create a Black Virginians advisory cabinet for the governor and a “one-time investment in a generation” in historically black colleges and universities demonstrates his belief in the words of Thomas Jefferson: “The government closest to the people serves best. the people. “

Mark Robinson, an American politician, grew up in poverty. He was placed in the foster care system because of a father who was an abusive alcoholic. After graduating from high school, he joined the Army Reserves and attended North Carolina A&T University. Through social media, Mark has become widely known for opposing Greensboro City Council for defending 2nd Amendment gun rights for law-abiding citizens. He later became the first African-American lieutenant governor of North Carolina, where he worked to protect the sanctity of life and freedom of speech, religion, the press, and assembly. The right to bear arms and the right of individuals to be treated equally and just before the law will also remain at the forefront of his legacy.

The heritage of black Americans is rooted in a history of excellence and contribution. Stories like these celebrate and reinforce the achievements, achievements and contributions of black Americans. Ours is the deep, difficult and ultimately triumphant story of helping to build a nation of freedom and prosperity.

The tale of challenge and triumph must be passed on to our children and future generations, as it enables them to better focus on the strength and resilience of black Americans moving from a tragic past to a place of triumph and victory despite our experiences in the valley.

We live in the greatest nation known to mankind. We have the freedom to tell our own story, and it is the responsibility of present and future generations to do so.

Terris E. Todd is the Civil Society and American Dialogue Program Manager at the Heritage Foundation.

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