October 2025 Newsletter

Fall invites us to reflect on change—not only in the landscape but in the stories that shape our community. As the air turns crisp and leaves shift to warm tones, we’re reminded that every family has a past worth preserving: census records, letters, oral histories, and local archives all combine to illuminate personal journeys across generations. This season, let’s pair the quiet focus of autumn with careful genealogical and historical research—reconnecting colleagues and neighbors to their roots, uncovering forgotten contributions, and preserving those discoveries for future readers. By integrating rigorous archival work with compassionate storytelling, we honor both the factual record and the human lives behind it—strengthening our collective memory as we prepare for the months ahead.

SAY THEIR NAMES

As part of the Society’s Five Star America 250 Program (refer to July 2025 Newsletter), we will launch our highly anticipated Forgotten Patriot’s "Say Their Name" Project on October 15, 2025.

In our "Say Their Name" Project  SOFAFEA will honor the nearly 10,000 men, women and children of African and Indigenous ancestry who served patriotically in the American Revolution and are now known as America’s Forgotten Patriots. 

Information and guidance on how members; historical, genealogical, and lineage societies; along with the general public can participate in finally honoring America's Forgotten Patriots by saying their names for eternity. Please find a Project Description and Guidance (hyperlinks):

• Say Their Name Project Description
• Say Their Name Volunteer Guidance

October is Family History Month, a time to honor the stories and legacy of those who came before us. Whether you're just beginning to explore your ancestry or have been uncovering family connections for years, this month provides the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into your ancestral roots.

Join us in celebrating the history, traditions, and memories that unite families across generations by exploring your genealogy, sharing family stories, and preserving your heritage for future generations.

In honor of Family History Month, any new membership applications received by December 31^st on the same ancestral line only pay the price for one application.

“Honesty is patriotism.”  Vedet Coleman-Robinson, president and CEO of the Association of African American Museums (AAAM), writes for Hyperallergic to raise the alarm about the current efforts to erase Black history from national and state stories in museums and warn that such erasure will extend to other communities’ histories as well.

Her piece finishes: “On the cusp of America 250, let us renew our dedication to the full American story. Let us recognize that preserving history is not a passive act; it is an act of civic courage. And let us make clear that the role of museums is not to protect us from history, but to prepare us for the future. Anything less is not just incomplete. It is dishonest. And in this moment, honesty is patriotism.” https://hyperallergic.com/1035834/first-they-came-for-black-history/ (reprinted with hyperlink from the National Council on Public History).

Angola's 50th Anniversary

Congratulations to the Government and people of Angola on the historic occasion of your 50th anniversary of independence. This golden jubilee marks not only five decades of sovereignty and nationhood, but also the enduring resilience, strength, and vision of the Angolan people. Over the years, Angola has made significant strides in fostering peace, promoting economic development, and preserving its rich cultural heritage. As descendants of Angola and the Bantu people, may this milestone serve as a moment of pride and reflection, as well as an inspiration for continued progress, unity, and prosperity in the decades to come.

National Book Month

SOFAFEA commemorates NATIONAL BOOK MONTH—a time to celebrate the power of stories, ideas, and imagination, and a time to celebrate the special connection between readers and authors. Books are more than pages and ink; they are bridges of imagination, history, and discovery. Books connect us to history, spark new perspectives, and inspire creativity in every reader.

Whether you’re revisiting a beloved classic, exploring new voices, or sharing a story about your family, this month reminds us of the joy and importance of reading. Let’s take time to honor authors, readers, and the written words that continue to shape our lives and communities.

DID YOU KNOW?

On October 13, the Continental Congress established the Continental Navy, and the U.S. Marine Corps was established on November 10.

Although confronting the Royal Navy directly seemed a daunting, nearly impossible task, our naval forces focused on harassing British shipping, attacking merchant vessels, and disrupting vital military supply lines. This strategy, along with the crucial involvement of France and Spain, helped to tilt the balance of power and contributed significantly to the eventual defeat of the British, bringing about the end of the Revolutionary War.

In The News

Under the creative direction of Genealogist General Dr. Shelley Murphy, SOFAFEA’s Mid-Atlantic District has curated a Forgotten Patriot Exhibit for libraries in Virginia.

Dr. Murphy’s exhibit, Finally Remembered: Black Patriots of Central Virginia, honors the African American men and women of Central Virginia—both enslaved and free—who served during the Revolutionary War. Through stories, records, and recovered names, this exhibit restores their rightful place in America’s founding era. These Patriots fought for liberty while living under oppression, yet their courage, labor, and resilience shaped the very nation that long forgot them. Today, we remember not only their service but also the legacy passed on to their descendants and communities.

END OF YEAR GIVING

As we approach the end of our 2025 fiscal year in December, we reflect on the achievements made possible by donors like you! From engaging public school students to providing educators with valuable resources, your support has made a real difference.

As a valued supporter of the Society of the First African Families of English America (SOFAFEA), you understand our vital role in preserving our ancestor's history, promoting civic education and expanding community programming. We deeply appreciate the generous investment you have already made in our organization. 

Your ongoing commitment helps us ensure that even more students, regardless of their background, can learn more about the contributions of our ancestors and about our nation's history in a meaningful and engaging way.

May 1st to 2nd, 2026
for the
Society of the First African Families of English America's
Annual Conference, Black Tie and Summit

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.