Reflecting on Harvey Gantt's Legacy | Guest Blog by CUSA Board Member Jennifer Brown
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The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (or ASALH, the founders of Black History Month), have announced their 2026 theme: “A Century of Black History Commemorations.” Noting Black luminaries including Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson, George Cleveland Hall, William B. Hartgrove, Jesse E. Moorland, Alexander L. Jackson, and James E. Stamps, ASLAH writes: “This year, when we are also commemorating the 250th anniversary of United States independence, it is important to tell not only an inclusive history, but an accurate one.” They continue:
We have never had more need to examine the role of Black History Month than we do when forces weary of democracy seek to use legislative means and book bans to excise Black history from America’s schools and public culture. Black history’s value is not its contribution to mainstream historical narratives, but its resonance in the lives of Black people. (Source: ASALH About the 2026 Black History Month)
Circles USA proudly joins ASALH’s celebration of Black history and culture in the US. We recognize that, due to centuries of systemic racial injustice, African Americans disproportionately experience debt; housing and food insecurity; and chronic, debilitating medical issues. Circles remains committed to centering the people and communities most impacted by poverty. To further that goal this February, several members of Circles USA leadership kindly shared their perspectives on Black economic advancement, the “American Dream,” and what Black history can teach us about building community to end poverty.
Written by Jennifer Brown
Circles USA Board Member
I was honored to be asked to guest blog for Black History Month. A few days later, I was attending an event in Charleston, SC, during MLK weekend. At this event, a gentleman received the Harvey Gantt award. This was a full-circle moment for me. Growing up in Charlotte, NC, I witnessed Harvey Gantt being elected the first African American Mayor. He had already made history as the first African American student admitted to Clemson University.
I sat and listened to the honoree speak of Harvey Gantt attending high school with his sister, and how everyone knew Harvey was bound for greatness. I started reflecting that, as much fear as I am experiencing in the second Trump administration, I am also thankful for all the things I have experienced when America is true to her creed. Growing up in Charlotte, I can’t explain the pride I felt when Mr. Gantt was elected Mayor. I remember attending events where he was the keynote speaker. My belief in what I could accomplish in America was affirmed. I knew I was going to college and that I would be an advocate for my community. When Barack Obama was elected President, I truly believed that America had turned a page and was leaving our past behind.
In 2026, I accept that America is a Continuous Improvement Project. We will always have to fight for justice, but our fight is not in vain. I believe that our youth are looking at us and seeing us not let all our progress go away. This will encourage more youth to see adults who look like them achieving the American Dream and to truly believe that they, too, can make a difference in their community and achieve their great dream.
My reflection during Black History Month is about allowing my fear to shrink and my fight to grow strong.
We will always have to fight for justice, but our fight is not in vain.
Further Reading on Harvey B. Gantt:
Harvey Gantt: From Desegregating Clemson to Becoming Charlotte’s First Black Mayor | LDF Recollection
About Harvey Gantt | Gantt Center
Building Community to End Poverty for 25+ Years
