Louis Daniel Armstrong's relationship with racism influenced not only his music but also the broader discourse on race in America. The barriers he broke as a Black musician are undeniable. The “Uncle Tom” criticism levied at him by some prominent Black Americans of the day was a reflection of the complex & sometimes contentious relationship between art, politics, & race in the United States.
Because of his willingness to play for segregated audiences, throughout much of his life, Louis Armstrong was called a sellout and an Uncle Tom by many Black Americans, But, in 1957, Satchmo blew up-—blasting Eisenhower to bits for not condemning treatment of Black American students in the South. His passionate words made world headlines, alienated many white fans, and divided Black America.
Born 122 years ago this week, Louis Armstrong's charisma & warmth captivated audiences globally. But, by the 1950s and 1960s, many Black Americans perceived him as outdated, out of touch with civil rights, and hesitant to voice his opinions—labeling him an "Uncle Tom." This deeply wounded Armstrong. But he was a far more complex & nuanced man than they knew.
Too many Americans are convinced that the only way to experience the high of national pride is to disregard all the evidence of racial inequity.
—Walter Rhein
Too many Americans are convinced that the only way to experience the high of national pride is to disregard all the evidence of racial inequity.
—Walter Rhein
Paul Robeson’s courage in front of the House Un-American Activities Committee made him a symbol of resistance for subsequent generations of civil rights activists & dissenters, who saw in his actions a model of courage in the face of political intimidation. He stood firm for his beliefs, despite the significant cost, and pushed back against the violation of civil liberties.
When they were called before the House Un-American Activities Committee, athletes Jackie Robinson and Paul Robeson were compelled to advocate for the loyalty, value, and patriotism of Black Americans to a predominantly white society riddled with pervasive racial prejudice. As symbolic representatives for the entire Black community, they bore a burden heavy with expectations and public scrutiny.
💛 “The Groveland Four: Omitted from Florida’s Black History Guidelines”
Much has been made about the new Florida’s State Academic Guidelines for Black history, for good reason: They ignore critical portions of Black history.
—William Spivey
Exactly 75 years ago, President Harry S. Truman repudiated 170 years of officially sanctioned discrimination when he signed Executive Order 9981, calling for desegregation of the U.S. Armed Forces. This event marked the first time a U.S. commander in chief used executive order to implement a civil rights policy, inspiring America to embrace desegregation in the future.
Great thread from @Deglassco on #transformation.Truman had big flaws (extremely debatable A-bomb use for example) and this thread teaches us some racist thinking remained but he moved policy, and the country forward on race.