The
40th Gala
The Banner has reached middle age. Nowadays it is
no big deal to turn 40, human longevity has so graciously extended
life. But for a black newspaper, it is quite an achievement to survive
for 40 years. The Banner celebrated the occasion last Saturday with
a black-tie gala at the Seaport Hotel.
One of the objectives was to demonstrate that Boston has indeed
matured. People from different racial and ethnic groups came together
to enjoy one another’s company in a festive, social environment.
Through the video graphic wizardry of Karl Nurse, the guests viewed,
without being self-conscious, many of the issues that have divided
the city. Everyone understood that was the past, a different era.
Boston has moved on.
Another objective was to honor four local area residents who have
contributed so much to advance the welfare and stature of African
Americans. It is too easy for people who are having difficulties
to believe that no one cares. The truth is that there are legions
of individuals committed to efforts designed to improve the status
of African Americans. Unlike those involved in the Civil Rights
Movement they do not always attract media attention.
Tom Brown
Quietly and persistently, for a period of more than 30 years, Tom
Brown approached major employers and convinced them to consider
hiring minority applicants. He began this effort before the term
“affirmative action” and “racial diversity”
were in vogue. Tom never threatened or insulted potential employers.
He wisely appealed to the basic sense of fairness innate in every
human being. Fortunately for the community, he has the strength
of character necessary to make such an appeal.
Once a prospective job was identified, the Banner would run a “Help
Wanted” ad to inform community residents of the opportunity.
Tom Brown’s Jobs Clearing House and the Banner placed more
than 10,000 people in executive and administrative jobs. Neither
Tom Brown nor the Banner received as much as a dime for their effort.
It was until last Saturday a totally thankless voluntary commitment
for Tom Brown.
Gail Snowden
Gail Snowden grew up in Roxbury. She knew from her own personal
experience that the real estate there had value. She knew which
neighborhoods were desirable and which areas were less so. She knew
that it was unwise for banks to draw a redline on the map around
the whole community and declare that area off limits for mortgages
and sophisticated loans.
As an officer of the Bank of Boston, she chose to head a division
to provide formerly unavailable loans in the redline zone. The risk
she took enabled Boston’s black community to develop financially.
Gail Snowden was honored because she put her career on the line
for the community.
Kay Bourne
Many African Americans choose a career in the arts – painting,
sculpture, music, theatre and dance. For 40 years Kay Bourne has
not let their work go unrecognized or unappreciated. Through her
efforts the African American art world has now become an important
part of Boston’s artistic spectrum. Kay Bourne’s lifetime
work deserves to be honored.
Allen Counter
Allen Counter is one of a kind. He is as much at home on an ice
flow in the North Pole as in a salon in Cambridge. The versatility
of his life demonstrates to all African Americans that there are
no barriers. The black experience knows no geographic boundaries.
Among other things, Allen Counter is an explorer. The focus of his
adventures is to add dimension to the African diaspora. His discoveries
provide unique and unknown information about African American history.
Allen Counter was honored as one of our ethnic treasures.
There are many who toil anonymously for the advancement of humanity.
The gala recognized just four. All guests were able to witness the
important role of The Banner in maintaining an historical record
of events that may otherwise be forgotten.
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Melvin B. Miller
Editor & Publisher
Bay State Banner
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