Today we remember the horrific Elaine Massacre of 1919, where over 200 Black lives were brutally taken. As we celebrate #Juneteenth, let us not forget the systemic oppression that still exists in Arkansas and the parallels to our current political landscape. #ElaineMassacre
The Elaine Massacre is a tragic event in American history, where African American sharecroppers in Phillips County formed a union to fight for better working conditions and fair wages, which led to a violent backlash from white authorities.
This event further highlights the systemic oppression that existed against Black communities in the past and how that oppression has evolved over time.
Despite progress made since 1919, the political landscape in Arkansas still shows systemic biases against the Black community. Recent attempts to suppress voting rights and push through discriminatory laws show that the struggle for equality and justice is ongoing.
As we celebrate Juneteenth, let us also reflect on the Elaine Massacre and continue to work towards a more just and equitable society.
The new LEARNS act is devastating to Marvell-Elaine School District and is a clear example of modern-day systemic racism towards Black communities. Takeovers and terminations will only lead to more educational disparities. We must stand up against this injustice. #SayNoToLEARNS
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We honor the resilience of Black Arkansans like Isaac Galloway, who fought for their freedom during the Civil War. His bravery and determination laid the foundation for progress in our state, though we still have much work to do towards true equality and justice. #Juneteenth
Isaac Galloway, born into slavery in Arkansas, gained his freedom during the Civil War by aiding Union troops. After the war, he became an advocate for civil rights and education, serving in Arkansas' Constitutional Convention of 1868.
Galloway also organized and served as a delegate to the state's first Republican convention. His bravery and advocacy for justice and equality paved the way for future generations of Black Arkansans. His contributions to Arkansas' history remain relevant today.
Some 420,000 of the 1.1 million Arkansans who receive Medicaid are being reviewed right now for eligibility in a process that began in February.
And those found ineligible will begin losing benefits in April, according to the Arkansas Department of Human Services.
While the federal government has allowed states a year from the date the Covid emergency was declared finished, a law passed in 2021 by Arkansas’ GOP-controlled legislature gave the state just six months to complete the process. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders is also eager to… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…
One of the difficulties, according to media reports, is the requirement for a massive review of the 420,000 recipients, in addition to the 240,000 who would normally come under annual review. The Department of Human Services, though, has hired contract workers in addition to its… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…