In the serene coastal city of Palm Coast, Florida, where retirees relish their leisurely days and golf courses dot the landscape, there is a vibrant community that thrives on the pursuit of knowledge, cultural preservation, and social awareness. For those passionate about African and African American history, the African Studies Group (ASG) is an invaluable treasure waiting to be discovered. Whether you are a lifelong scholar of African heritage or just beginning your journey, this article will shed light on why you should consider joining this enlightening community.

The African Studies Group, hosted by the African American Cultural Society, Inc. (AACS), is more than just a monthly meeting; it’s a bridge to the past, present, and future of African and African American history. The primary objective is to emphasize the significance of understanding this intricate history and its profound impact on our lives today.

Each month, participants have the opportunity to review carefully selected books that illuminate different facets of African and African American history. These discussions provide a platform for sharing insights, diverse perspectives, and thought-provoking analyses. In an age of digital connectivity, ASG also offers the convenience of virtual meetings via Zoom, ensuring that anyone, regardless of their location or schedule, can participate and contribute to these enlightening dialogues.

But that’s not all. The ASG’s commitment to fostering a sense of community and inclusivity goes beyond the digital realm. Surrounding counties are warmly invited to join via Zoom, with the added option of attending meetings in person. This inclusive approach ensures that individuals from various backgrounds and locations can actively engage in these vital conversations.

The mission of the African American Cultural Society, Inc. (AACS) is deeply intertwined with the ASG’s purpose. AACS’s commitment to preserving and perpetuating the cultural heritage of the African Diaspora is evident in its dedication to educational, social, cultural, and intellectual activities. By joining the ASG, you become part of a larger movement aimed at fostering a better understanding of this heritage and its significance to the broader community. For more information about AACS and its initiatives, visit www.aacspalmcoast.org.

Now, let’s delve into some of the topics in the past, and you can expect similar topics in the future:

1. African Solar Year Project Update: Stay informed about this groundbreaking project, led by Rob Whiting, that seeks to reconnect with the African Solar Year, a historically significant calendar system that highlights the deep roots of African culture and knowledge.

2. State of the National and Global African Community: Gain insights into the current affairs, challenges, and triumphs of Black communities across the world. These discussions will keep you informed about the global African community’s progress and struggles.

3. Black Communities Endured a Wave of Excess Deaths in Past 2 Decades: Delve into the sobering reality of excess deaths in Black communities over the past two decades. These discussions will shed light on the medical and economic costs of this devastating trend.

4. 100 Years of Black Voter Suppression in Florida: Explore the history of voter suppression in Florida and its impact on Black communities. Understanding this history is crucial for shaping a more equitable future.

5. Brother Malcolm X’s Strategic Pan Africanism: Delve into the legacy of the iconic Malcolm X and his strategic approach to Pan Africanism. These discussions will inspire you to think critically about the past and its relevance to contemporary issues.

6. Study of the 1619 Project Led by Member Joe Jones: This powerful initiative, developed by The New York Times, delves into the history and legacy of slavery in the United States, offering fresh perspectives on how it has shaped our nation’s identity.

7. AACS Speaker Series (listed below are some of the past speakers)


  • Lennox S. Hinds the author of: “Illusions of Justice: Human Rights Violations in the United States.'”
  • A. Peter Bailey the author of: “Brother Malcolm X’s Strategic Pan Africanism.”
  • James Abraham Lecturer on: “100 Years of Black Voter Suppression in Florida”

 

Leading the ASG is Ed Brown, who serves as the chair, and the group boasts a dedicated membership that includes Loretta Bryant, Jackie Dempsey, Lawrence Green, Joseph T Jones, Joseph Matthews, Reinhold Schlieper, Nii Sowa-La, Robert Whiting, Alton Dempsey, Ethel Green, Alberto Jones, Ralph E. Lightfoot, Calvin D. McNeil Sr, D. Ayoka Jasey Sowa-La, Jean M. Tanner, and Meshella E. Woods. Together, they form a dynamic and diverse community that brings together a wealth of knowledge and experience.

In Palm Coast, Florida, the African Studies Group offers an opportunity to not only learn but also actively engage in the preservation of African and African American history. As a retiree with a passion for knowledge and a commitment to progressive ideals, this group aligns perfectly with your interests and values. Join the ASG today and be part of a community that seeks to illuminate the past, understand the present, and shape a brighter future for all.

 

Ralph Lightfoot – ASG Member