This year AMADC celebrates all African Americans and the courage it takes to become successful.
Maryland’s new Governor Wes Moore is a wonderful example of those who persevere. He is the first black governor of Maryland and only the sixth in our nation’s history. He sent out a letter recently to his supporters and explained,
“Last month, I was sworn in just blocks away from the Annapolis docks, where so many enslaved people arrived in this country against their will. We stood in front of a capitol building built by their hands. It is a testament to the fact that progress is not inevitable, but possible.”
Moore first came to national attention after the Baltimore Sun ran a story about Wes Moore, a local student who had just received a Rhodes Scholarship. In the same edition, they also ran a story about four young men who had allegedly killed a police officer in an armed robbery. One of the suspects was also named Wes Moore.
Our Wes Moore corresponded with the man he shared a name with for several years. They had both grown up on the streets of Baltimore, even hung out on the same street corner, but had taken completely different paths in life. The book was a bestseller and showcased to all how the choices we make shape our lives.
Moore’s story is not just inspiring but a testament to what we all can accomplish. So, the next time you come up against what seems like an insurmountable obstacle, remember that story and keep going forward. You can do this!
Please join AMA’s president Bennie F. Johnson, our president Andrea Smith, and other AMADC panelists for a discussion next week about Black History Month.
Have a great week!