During the Revolutionary War, unprecedented measures were taken to win the fight against the British. The 1st Rhode Island Regiment is notable for being recognized as the first regiment to enlist both enslaved and free Black men. At the time, a mandated draft of soldiers went into effect that required each state to enlist a certain number of soldiers per their population. Rhode Island did not have enough white soldiers enlisted and requested that they be allowed to recruit Black men.
During the Civil War, Black men were not allowed to enlist in the Union forces until 1862. This year marked the passage of the Emancipation Proclamation, which was met with reluctance and rejection by many white military personnel. With their entry into the military, Black soldiers would continue to be discriminated against and be paid far less than their white counterparts. Additionally, they faced greater danger while serving due to the threat of racial violence. By the end of the Civil War, it was estimated that 180,000 Black soldiers had enlisted and fought for the North.
During WWI and WWII, Black soldiers continued their legacy of American military action, resiliently enduring through discrimination and racism. One remarkable regiment of Black soldiers during WWI were the Harlem Hellfighters. While many Black soldiers of the time rarely saw combat, this regiment was different. Under French leadership, the Harlem Hellfighters often engaged in active combat. By the end of the Great War, the regiment received the Croix de Guerre, a French military decoration for valor in battle.
This Memorial Day, we are keeping the history and legacy of Black soldiers at the forefront of our minds and hearts. These soldiers fought on the side of freedom, even when it was not a guarantee for themselves. Sankofa Impact recognizes the complexity that resides between American imperialism and the sacrifices of Black soldiers. We honor all those who have fought for freedom as we constantly strive to bring about the liberation of all people.
