September 2025 Newsletter

This Labor Day, we pause to honor the dedication, resilience, and achievements of America’s workers—past and present—whose contributions have built and shaped our nation. From the tobacco and cotton fields of the old south, to the factories of the north and mid-west, to offices and classrooms, every effort has played a role in advancing our nation's progress and prosperity.

As we enjoy this Labor Day with family and friends, let us also remember the historic struggles of the labor movement, which fought for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the rights we benefit from today. May this day serve as a reminder to the value and the importance of quality employment, the need to support one another, and to continue striving toward a future where dignity and respect for all workers remain at the heart of our communities.

Happy Labor Day, America!

Meet The Authors:
of the Award Winning Book
Forgotten Patriots of the Northern Theater  

Behind every great book is a team of passionate storytellers—and this one is no exception. The collective expertise of authors of the Award Winning Book Forgotten Patriots of the Northern Theater, spans history, culture, and scholarship, ensuring a full and complete narrative of the Revolutionary War’s Northern Theater that is both accurate and deeply engaging. Through their dedication, this book sheds new light on the men, women and children of African and Indigenous descent that shaped the events of the Revolutionary War and the founding of our nation.

This volume is the result of meticulous research and intellectual rigor. Drawing upon primary sources, critical analysis, and years of scholarship, they present a work that not only informs but also challenges prevailing narratives. Their collective efforts reflect the highest standards of historical inquiry, offering readers a text that is both authoritative and thought-provoking

The authors are more than researchers, they’re descendants, scholars, and historians who share one mission: to bring history to life in a way that captivates and inspires. With fresh insights and a commitment to telling the stories that matter, they’ve created a book that readers can’t put down.  

Be among the first to read this award-winning publication when it launches on 10-25-25. These are the stories that deserve to be told—and remembered.

Stay tuned for release updates, pre-order information, and special launch events.

#ForgottenPatriots #RevolutionaryWar #History #NorthernTheater #BlackHistory #IndigenousHistory  #HistoryMatters

Maryland Revolutionary War Memorial

As part of our America 250 initiative, SOFAFEA announces that the state of Maryland is creating a monument to honor Black Marylanders who served in the Revolutionary War. 

The monument will be placed on the grounds of the Maryland State House in Annapolis, replacing the former site of a Confederate statue of Roger B. Taney. It will be the first such monument on any U.S. state house grounds dedicated to Black soldiers of the Revolutionary War. The project is part of Maryland's broader celebration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and is expected to be unveiled in July 2026. 

Landmark
1965 Voting Rights Act

SOFAFEA honors the legacy of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a landmark piece of legislation that transformed American democracy. Signed into law on August 6, 1965, by President Lyndon B. Johnson, the Act prohibited racial discrimination in voting, breaking down decades of barriers such as literacy tests, poll taxes, and other practices designed to suppress African American voters, particularly in the South.

The law empowered the federal government to oversee voter registration and elections in areas with a history of disenfranchisement, ensuring that every citizen’s right to vote was protected. Though challenged over the years, the Voting Rights Act remains a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equal access to the ballot box and the importance of safeguarding the fundamental right to vote for all Americans.

United States Constitution

On September 17, we celebrate Constitution Day, commemorating the signing of the United States Constitution in 1787—a document that continues to shape our freedoms and protect our individual rights. The Constitution established the framework for our government and enshrined principles that safeguard liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and due process under the law.

This day serves as a reminder that these rights were hard-won and require our vigilance to preserve. By understanding the Constitution and its amendments, we not only honor the vision of the Founders but also empower ourselves to actively engage in the democratic process and defend the rights that define us as Americans.

National Literacy Month

SOFAFEA commemorates National Literacy Month, a time to recognize the power of reading and the lifelong benefits of literacy. The ability to read and write opens doors to knowledge, opportunity, and empowerment, shaping individuals and strengthening communities. This month, we celebrate the educators, parents, and mentors who nurture a love of learning, as well as the libraries and organizations that provide open and equal access to books and resources for all.

Let us honor this occasion by sharing stories, supporting literacy programs, and inspiring others to discover the joy of reading—because every page turned is a step toward a brighter future.

DID YOU KNOW?

Did you know that September 3, 1783, marks the signing of the Treaty of Paris, which officially ended the American Revolutionary War? This pivotal agreement between Great Britain and the United States recognized American independence and established borders that shaped the young nation’s future. For historians and scholars, the treaty is a fascinating study in diplomacy, as it not only secured peace but also set the stage for future conflicts and negotiations over territory and trade. Examining the treaty’s terms, the key players involved, and its global implications offers valuable insights into the complexities of nation-building in the late 18th century.

For more information

The Society of the First African Families of English America is a 501(c)3 organizations that relies on contributions, and all contributions are tax deductible.