Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility Pronounced: oo-JEE-mah
To build and maintain our community together and make our brothers’ and sisters’ problems our problems and solve them together.
As we celebrate Black Liberation Month, I am moved to reflect on the journey —both personal and collective — that continues to shape the struggle for freedom, equity, and justice for Black people in America. My own path began when I was just 16 years old, employed by Operation Breadbasket. Back then, under the auspices of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), I was compensated to support economic empowerment efforts led by none other than Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. That early opportunity ignited a lifelong commitment to service and justice that would stay with me throughout my military and civilian careers.
Serving in the U.S. Army and later retiring from the Navy as a civilian, I never let go of the values I learned from that grassroots organizing. It was more than a job— it was training in purpose, discipline, and community building. Those same values still guide me today.
I am proud to have continued my involvement through the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, particularly at its first national conference under the capable leadership of Yusef Jackson. That moment marked the emergence of a vibrant and necessary second generation organization — one perfectly equipped to battle today’s injustices while building strong, forward-thinking coalitions.
Let us take a moment to commend not only Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr., whose vision changed the trajectory of civil rights organizing, but also the entire Jackson family. Their collective contributions represent a multigenerational commitment to our freedom struggle. Rev. Janette Wilson and Betty Magness also deserve high praise for the structural support they have provided throughout the years.
Their leadership has helped make room for the powerful voices of daughter Santita Jackson and wife Jacqueline “Jackie” Jackson — two women I plan to write about in future reflections. Their grace, strength, and public service deserve far more recognition.
Congressman Jonathan Jackson, now serving Illinois’s 1st Congressional District, continues this legacy with dignity and fire. His presence in Congress is a victory for the people, a voice rooted in history and focused on justice. We are fortunate to have leadership that is both experienced and evolving.
I also want to remind readers that the PUSH Saturday Morning Forum remains a cornerstone of our community — held every Saturday at 10:00 a.m., with breakfast served at 9:30 a.m. It is a living space for political education, connection, and continued resistance.
As for me, I plan to write more — not just to reflect, but to document, uplift, and continue the fight. We cannot afford to sit back. The struggle endures, and so must we. Black Liberation Month reminds us that while much has been accomplished, much more remains. The baton has not only been passed — it is being carried with pride and power.
Darryl Holmes is retired from the U.S. Army.
