His leadership extended globally as a two-time Chair of Y-USA's International Committee. Additionally, Dr. Epperson held the distinguished position of the longest-serving Dean of the University of Pittsburgh's School of Social Work, demonstrating his lasting impact over 29 years. His profound influence resonates across decades and continents, embodying a legacy of service, leadership, and inclusivity that continues to inspire us all.
“No matter where we traveled in the world, people knew him as a man who would do anything to ease the burden of another” - Julius Jones, former Executive Director of YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh (1979-2003)
Thank you for joining us in honoring Dr. David Epperson.
THE HISTORY OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Since 1976, the American government has acknowledged February as Black History Month and endorsed a specific theme.
The Black History Month theme for 2024, “African Americans and the Arts,” honors African, Caribbean, and Black American lived experience via visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression. The impact of African American influence in art and culture is undeniable. Below is a list of some of our favorite ways to learn more about Black History and contribution to American culture.
WAYS TO ENGAGE
Many of us did not get the full truth of Black History in schools. Thank you for joining the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh in deepening awareness of Black History and cultural contributions, not just in February, but all year long. Here are some of our staff recommends:
Podcasts:
Historically Black – As part of The Washington Post’s coverage of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, people submitted dozens of objects that make up their own lived experiences of black history, creating a “people’s museum” of personal objects, family photos and more. This podcast brings those objects and their stories to life through interviews, archival sound, and music.
Witness Black History – BBC World News compiles and chronicles Black History topics, contemporary issues, and cultural impact.
Beyond Black History – Black History Month happens every February. But the Black community’s impact on American goes way beyond a mere 28 days. This podcast delves into Black history all year round, while also providing nuanced conversations about race and inequality in the U.S.
Books:
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks – Rebecca Skloot
The Autobiography of Malcom X
Life of Fredrick Douglass
Becoming – Michelle Obama
A Promise Land – Barack Obama
The History of Institutional Racism in U.S. Public Schools – Susan DuFresne
The Humanity Archive: Recovering the Soul of Black History from a Whitewashed American Myth – Jermaine Fowler
Web resources:
Black Archives – This site examines the nuance of Black life – providing insight and inspiration to those seeking to understand the legacies that preceded their own.
National Gallery of Art - Black Art Collection – from 19th century painters to modern and contemporary artists.
National Museum of African American History & Culture – Celebrates art as a platform for social justice and includes a digital toolkit for action all month long.
Urban Intellectuals – Educational resources for learning often overlooked Black History.
