A blog post by Forest Whitaker for Black History Month
February 25, 2025 – Each year, Black History Month is an opportunity for us to collectively reflect on the rich and often overlooked contributions of Black people throughout history. If we look back, our modern society greatly benefitted from the input, innovation and inspiration of Black scientists, artists, social justice activists, politicians, environmentalists, entrepreneurs and writers: visionaries whose brilliance has left an indelible mark on modern civilization.
Imagine waking up in a world without the traffic light guiding your morning commute, without the home security system protecting your loved ones, without the soothing hum of air conditioning on a sweltering summer day. Imagine hospitals without advancements in blood transfusion technology, workplaces without modern computers, and kitchens without your favorite automatic appliances. These are all inventions that can be attributed to Black visionaries. Garrett Morgan, Dr. Charles Drew, Lonnie Johnson, C.J. Walker or Mark Dean, these individuals have left a profound mark on our daily lives. We know of their work, much less so of their names.
The most striking fact, though, is the number and scope of obstacles that the Black community has had to overcome to prove its undeniable worth, which has left us with a deep understanding of resilience, sacrifice, and a relentless fight for dignity and equality. From the brutality of forced, unpaid labor of slavery to the ongoing struggle for economic justice, African Americans have continually pushed forward, forging a legacy that demands recognition and respect. As is often repeated but not yet fully acknowledged, Black history is American history. This must be taught as the simple truth that it is. Despite systemic oppression, the Black community has continually pushed humanity forward. The story of Black labor is not just one of resilience in the face of exploitation; it is one of boundless innovation, creativity, and progress.
From the very foundation of our nation, Black labor powered industries that built the American economy. Yet, beyond the fields and factories, Black minds were crafting inventions and ideas that reshaped the world: the impact of Black excellence is woven into the very fabric of our daily lives.
Moreover, despite the injustices they have faced as citizens of the United States, African Americans remained devoted to the values of this country, values of hard work and selflessness that they demonstrated at every turn of history, including economic history, and played a pivotal role in shaping the labor movement in America. The March on Washington in 1963—where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech—was, at its core, a march for economic fairness. Officially titled the “March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom,” the event underscored the demand for fair wages, equal opportunities, and an end to racial discrimination in employment. The struggle for labor rights has always been inseparable from the broader fight for civil rights.
Bayard Rustin, one of the key architects of the march, is finally receiving wider recognition for his indispensable contributions, as highlighted in the recent film Rustin. His work reminds us that while progress has been made, significant challenges remain, especially today. Systemic racism continues to manifest itself through economic disparities, wage gaps, and limited opportunities for Black workers. These inequities are not just historical remnants but ongoing realities that must be addressed urgently.
Today, Black workers still face disproportionate rates of unemployment, wage suppression, and barriers to career advancement. The fight for economic justice extends beyond fair wages—it includes access to quality education, affordable housing, workplace protections, and safer neighborhoods. In the gig economy, where job security and benefits are often lacking, Black workers are particularly vulnerable to exploitation.
Yet, there is hope. The resilience of Black laborers and the creative input of Black visionaries throughout history serves as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of the African American community. From the early days of abolitionist movements to the labor rights activism of the 20th century and today’s fight for economic justice, the commitment to fairness and dignity in work remains steadfast, with benefits that always extended beyond the Black community and benefitted every other American worker.
As we observe Black History Month, I believe it is crucial that every American recommit to honoring this legacy not only through reflection but through action. It is now more important than ever to reflect on the legacies of Black people who have transformed our world by advocating for fair wages, supporting Black-owned businesses, and championing approaches that foster fairness in every industry. Economic justice isn’t a niche issue; it’s a universal cause that uplifts entire communities and strengthens the very foundation of our society.
By standing together in the fight for economic fairness, we can create a more just and open society for present and future generations. The labor of African Americans has always been vital to the nation’s progress and it will remain so.