By Ricky Smith
From – https://baltimoretimes-online.com/
Reprinted – by Texas Metro News
On July 2, 1964, President Lyndon Johnson signed into law the Civil Right Act and upon executing his signature, issued a challenge to all Americans to “…go to work in our communities and our states, in our homes and in our hearts, to eliminate the last vestiges of injustice in our beloved country.”
As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of one of the most significant pieces of civil rights legislation in history, this moment is not only an opportunity to reflect on past accomplishments but also to look forward to the ongoing work needed to address contemporary issues. Despite significant progress, in 2024 challenges such as economic inequality, educational disparities, and systemic racism persist.
Dr. Martin Luther King once proclaimed to a packed assembly in an Alabama church, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?” And while there is undeniable evidence that we have made significant strides in the quest for equality and fairness, Dr. King’s query is as relevant to Baltimore in 2024 as it was in Montgomery in 1957.
As individuals and as a community, we must lend ear to the words of President Johnson and Dr. King. Their challenge to us is clear and in so many ways reflect the heart of why the Greater Baltimore Urban League exists and is needed now as much as we have ever been.
As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the GBUL, we continue to play a vital role in advocating for policies and practices that promote equity and inclusion. We are clear that in 2024, African Americans still contend with economic disparity, housing discrimination, overcrowded schools, over policing, voter suppression and a long list of ills buoyed by persistent racism.
We are proud of all that we’ve accomplished but, in all honesty, since better is possible, our best is simply not enough.
The 100th anniversary of the Greater Baltimore Urban League is a momentous occasion that highlights a century of steadfast advocacy, community service, and transformative impact. It serves as a reminder of the enduring struggle for civil rights and the importance of organizations like the GBUL in driving social change.
As the GBUL looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of empowering communities and changing lives, ensuring that the legacy of its first century will inspire progress for generations to come. Stay tuned for a variety of exciting events over the next several months, including a senatorial debate in October, a golf tournament on October 10th and concluding gala on November 8th. I am enthusiastic about the future of GBUL and the path we are charting, and I sincerely hope that all of you will continue your support and join us on our shared journey towards a better future.
For more details and to get involved with the Greater Baltimore Urban League’s centennial anniversary, please visit our website at gbul.org.
Ricky Smith is Chairman of the Greater Baltimore Urban League.
