Recognizing Black Success During Juneteenth.
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As Juneteenth approaches, it’s essential to acknowledge the accomplishments of Black people, particularly in the region we serve. Although Juneteenth originated in the South, it was the everyday people who recognized their worth that made it a national holiday. It’s time to celebrate and highlight other areas such as Chicago’s Bronzeville, which was once known as the Black Metropolis, and give them the recognition they deserve.
The term “Black Metropolis” refers to a vibrant and significant African American community that emerged in the early 20th century in the Bronzeville neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. It was also known as the “Black Belt” or the “Black Ghetto.”
During the Great Migration, which took place between 1916 and 1970, millions of African Americans from the South relocated to the North and Midwest seeking better opportunities and escaping racial discrimination and violence. Chicago became one of the major destinations for African American migrants, and Bronzeville became a hub of black culture, business, and activism.
The Black Metropolis was characterized by a flourishing African American cultural and intellectual life. It was home to prominent black-owned businesses, educational institutions, churches, and music venues, including the famous Savoy Ballroom and Regal Theater. It also housed influential black newspapers such as the Chicago Defender.
The area became a center for black social, political, and artistic movements. Notable figures such as Richard Wright, Gwendolyn Brooks, Louis Armstrong, and Ida B. Wells were part of this vibrant community. The Black Metropolis played a crucial role in the development of black political power and the Civil Rights Movement.
Over time, demographic shifts and urban renewal projects resulted in changes to the physical landscape of the Black Metropolis. However, its historical and cultural significance continues to be recognized, and efforts are made to preserve its legacy and promote its contributions to African American history and culture.
