Women’s Federation for World Peace Celebrates Black History Month 2022—National Theme: Black Family Health and Wellness
Women’s Federation for World Peace, is proud to acknowledge and participate in the annual celebration of Black History Month also known as African American History Month each year in February. Since its founding by Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon in 1992, WFWP continues to focus on issues that impact human rights and women’s dignity.
The national theme this year, “Black Family Health and Wellness,” is to focus on the importance of Black health and wellness and to significantly honor those who have made prestigious contributions in the field of health and medicine. In the African American community we say “taking care of the Mind, Body and the Soul of our being.”
As an African American woman, I have seen, over a decade, the effort WFWP leaders and members make to interact as sisters regardless of race, economic status, culture, political or religious ideology in communities around the world. Inter-racial Bridge Crossing Peace Ceremonies establish sister relationships between black, white, brown, Asian, Hispanic, and Native American that would not occur in our normal lifestyle. Within our relationships is a pattern of sharing our families, health, wealth, mental and psychological well being. Unfortunately, if we examine healthcare in some Black communities; healthcare is underserved leaving communities stricken by illnesses.
“We cannot meet God from a position of reigning over others. He finds us when we are silently working for the sake of those in greater difficulty than ourselves,” said Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon from her memoir Mother of Peace, and God Shall Wipe All Tears from Their Eyes.
The achievements of African Americans are astronomical in all walks of life; more than exceptional strides have been made in government, sports, the arts, and all sectors. To mention all the Black people who have impacted, influenced, and helped to make our lives better is lengthy. As the theme permits, I would like to share about a few renowned people who have contributed to the field of health and medicine: Dr. Kissmekia Corbett, who did research on the Moderna Vaccine that has saved thousands; Tabitha Brown, wellness influencer and creator of plant-based and vegan recipes; Dr. Francis Sumner, first Black person to receive a PhD in Psychology, and he also served on the faculty of Howard University; and finally, Stephanie Akoumany, founder and CEO Bloom Wellness Lab and host of the Blooming is A Habit, a podcast discussing family relations, wellness, self-care, and community building. As we all know “good health” encompasses all that relates and impacts the “BODY, MIND AND SOUL.”
This year for Black History Month, the theme is relating to health and wellbeing, however, I would like to answer some common questions. Some people ask, “Why is Black History month in February?” It started as a week by Carter Woodson in February, as acknowledged with the births of President Abraham Lincoln and reformer Frederick Douglass. These men helped to end slavery.
“Why is Black History Month Celebrated?” When it started in 1915, the main focus was a way for schools to celebrate and learn about Black history makers, but now we acknowledge all Black people who have made contributions and achievements for the country and the world. Thousands are responsible for inventions, medical and scientific discoveries, and contributions to the arts.
During his 1963, “I Have a Dream Speech” in Washington, DC, Dr. Martin L. King Jr. said: “I say to you today, my friends, that in spite of the difficulties and frustrations of the moment, I still have a dream.”
I had the honor of attending that event, as a young woman and like Dr. King, I too have a DREAM that the spirits of women such as Rosa Parks, Fannie Lou Hammer, Sojourner Truth, Mary McCloud Bethune, Shirley Chrisom, Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya Angelou, Cicely Tyson and others, will sit together with: Vice President Kamala Harris, Michelle Obama, Stacy Abrams, Sheila Jackson Lee, Jacqueline Jackson, and all the “first Black women” breaking ceilings. The dream continues when Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon (The Mother of Peace) walks in, serves tea and collaborates with these women on issues that plague our world. Perhaps she will speak about her historic visit to Africa in 2019. How her visit influenced the leaders and people whose ancestors were taken away on slave ships. I am thankful that she prayed for them and world peace as she stood at the famous “Door of No Return'' on Gorée Island.
As women, as mothers, we must ensure that our families receive the nourishment necessary for all aspects of being healthy; and where possible support the efforts of others who are helping where much needed nutrients are lacking, sufficient food, clothing, shelter and mental challenges. Fear not what others may say or think; as women God created within us gifts of empathy, sympathy and compassion and insight to feel others' pain.
May God bless and keep you,
Fannie M. Smith: Women’s Federation for World Peace, Schools of Africa National Coordinator