#ResistanceRoots Ted Blakey was born on this day in 1925 in Yankton, S.D. An activist, historian and businessman, Blakey played an instrumental role in the civil rights movement in South Dakota. He was also the leader of the committee that helped the state ratify the 24th Amendment. /1
Although the North did not have legal segregation, there was systemic discrimination that prevented African Americans from accessing quality housing, employment and education. The Green Book, a guide for Black travelers, listed just 15 sites in South Dakota that would serve Black people. /2
When was the last publication of "The Green Book"?
Until I visited (visit 1 of 2) the #NMAAHC in DC in 2017 — twenty freaking SEVENTEEN 😣 — I'd vaguely HEARD of 'the green book.' But never REALLY knew what it was. That's horrible. THAT realization (of NOT knowing), is part of why I stay SO passionate about keeping up #TheTimeline.
Blakey founded his first business, a janitorial service, in 1956 and became active in several social organizations. He became the first African American senator of Junior Chamber International and one of the first African American presidents of a local Kiwanis chapter. /3
When the NAACP and Gov. Archie Gubbrud asked him to work on civil rights issues, Blakey used his connections in those organizations to fight for change. Thanks to his efforts, South Dakota became the 38th and final state needed to approve the 24th Amendment, eliminating the poll tax. /end
Side note: The civil rights movement in South Dakota was intertwined with the struggle for Native American rights. Native Americans continue to suffer discrimination and injustice that is manifested in education, employment, public health and other spheres.
Isn’t that Kristi Noem’s state?
And before her Janklow. Long history of anti native policy.
So important #HistoryMatters