African American History Month: Spotlight on the Tuskegee Airmen

 

Happy Black History Month everyone! Because of the buzz around the movie “Red Tails,” a lot of attention is now being paid to the Tuskegee Airmen – the first African-American pursuit squadron. Learn the true story here:

"Tuskegee Airmen" refers to all who were involved in the so-called "Tuskegee Experiment," the Army Air Corps program to train African Americans to fly and maintain combat aircraft. The Tuskegee Airmen included pilots, navigators, bombardiers, maintenance and support staff, instructors, and all the personnel who kept the planes in the air.

The military selected Tuskegee Institute to train pilots because of its commitment to aeronautical training. Tuskegee had the facilities, and engineering and technical instructors, as well as a climate for year round flying. The first Civilian Pilot Training Program students completed their instruction in May 1940. The Tuskegee program was then expanded and became the center for African-American aviation during World War II.

The Tuskegee Airmen overcame segregation and prejudice to become one of the most highly respected fighter groups of World War II. They proved conclusively that African Americans could fly and maintain sophisticated combat aircraft. The Tuskegee Airmen's achievements, together with the men and women who supported them, paved the way for full integration of the U.S. military.

If you would like to learn more about their fascinating history, you can find the full article here: http://www.tuskegeeairmen.org/explore/history.aspx

Tip #10 – “Be a Relationship Builder” this Valentine’s Day

 

This Valentine’s Day reach out to all your loved ones to show them Dignity & Respect. And while your add it, why not add some new friends and colleagues to your circle! Here are some tips to help you build relationships this Valentine’s Day

• Send a personalized, hand-made card. Say what you feel and let it come authentically from the bottom of your heart
• Give the gift of health! Prepare a healthy snack for your school, your office, or sign up for a couple’s exercise class.
• Help out! Do a chore for a friend, neighbor, or loved one. Help a stranger at the grocery story with her packages. Or simply hold a door open for a fellow patron.
• Say “Hello” to someone new.
• Call as many of your contacts as you can and just check in with them.

Do you have any ideas on how to reach out this Valentine’s Day? Share them with us!

Announcing the 2011 Dignity & Respect Champion: Dr. Maya Angelou

 

The Dignity & Respect Campaign is proud to announce Dr. Maya Angelou as the first annual Dignity & Respect Champion. Dr. Angelou -- celebrated poet, memoirist, novelist, educator, dramatist, producer, actress, historian, filmmaker, and civil rights activist -- is recognized for her lifelong commitment to making the world a better place for all to live.

Candi Castleberry-Singleton, founder and chair of the Dignity & Respect Campaign, presented the Dignity & Respect Champion award to Dr. Angelou at her home in North Carolina.

"Maya Angelou has demonstrated unshakable faith and a commitment to the values of family, community, and culture throughout her life. Whether as a cable car conductor, a waitress and cook, a dancer with the Alvin Ailey company, an editor of an English Language paper in Egypt, a coordinator for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, a Pulitzer Prize nominee, or a Presidential Medal of Arts winner, Dr. Angelou values all members of the human family," said Ms. Castleberry-Singleton. "She exemplifies the characteristics of a Dignity & Respect Champion."

During their time together, Dr. Angelou's brilliance filled the room as she reflected on four themes:

· The meaning of dignity and respect

· Living with dignity and respect

· The human condition

· Courage

We invite you to view videos of Dr. Angelou's comments to Ms. Castleberry-Singleton, available at dignityandrespect.org.

Do you know an individual who makes a positive impact and promotes an environment of inclusion? If so, nominate the person in your life you feel has made a difference for the Dignity & Respect Champion Award!

February is African American History Month

 

Happy African American History Month! This month, we invite you to take time to reflect on African American history, achievements, and the importance of supporting Dignity & Respect for everyone.

If you are a teacher, the Library of Congress has several premade lessons you can share with your classroom. Check out these free resources here: http://www.africanamericanhistorymonth.gov/teachers.html

Or simply educate yourself and read more about the history of this holiday here: http://www.africanamericanhistorymonth.gov/about.html

Let us all continue to create a legacy of Dignity & Respect for all!