During National African American History Month, we honor the heritage and accomplishments of African Americans and recognize their extraordinary contributions to the United States and humanity.

This year's theme for African American History Month celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Niagara Movement in honor of the first African American meeting held to end racial discrimination.  The objectives of this meeting were to advocate civil justice and abolish discrimination. Heralded as a forerunner of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the Niagara Movement disbanded in 1910, with the leadership of W. E. B. DuBois providing continuity between the Niagara Movement and the NAACP.

In the call for full civil liberties, an end to racial discrimination, and full recognition of human goodwill, the Niagara Movement opened the door for the African American community to show the courage and dedication to battle for freedom and equality.  The Niagara Movement lasted only a few years and never had more than 200 active members, yet its impact has been tremendous.

The Niagara Movement demanded "real" education for all children. The members believed, "Either the United States will destroy ignorance or ignorance will destroy the United States ."  In 1895 W. E. B. DuBois became the first African American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University . This opened the door for the many African Americans who would follow in his footsteps to further their education.  Since 1895 our nation has reaped the benefits of many great African American leaders. Let us never forget individuals like Louis Armstrong and Scott Joplin, who were great musicians; B. K. Bruce, the first African American to serve a full term in the U.S. Senate; Dr. Guion Bluford the first African American astronaut, who flew aboard the Challenger in 1983; Aaron Douglas, an artist who was associated with the Harlem Renaissance art movement; Dr. Charles Drew, a medical doctor who started the idea of a blood bank and a system for the long term preservation of blood plasma; Dr. Martin Luther King, a great man who worked for racial equality; Secretary of State Colin Powell; and Dr. Condoleezza Rice, who became the 66th Secretary of State on January 26, 2005, and the first African American woman to serve as our ambassador. Let us also remember the countless African American service members who sacrificed their personal liberties to defend our freedom and to help make America stronger.

I encourage all DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Guam employees to take advantage of the many opportunities to celebrate and reflect on the accomplishments of African American leaders who have helped to make our country what it is today. African American history is -- and always has been -- a vital part of American society. As we have witnessed living overseas, learning about and understanding cultural differences are important aspects in the concept of education and, essentially, America .

Nancy C. Bresell
Director, DoDDS-Pacific/DDESS-Guam