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The Power of Bridges: How Black History Shaped Immigrant Success

Writer's picture: Rhonda Douglas CharlesRhonda Douglas Charles

Updated: 6 days ago

From the Civil Rights Movement to Today: How Black History Shapes Immigrant Rights

Black history has shaped so much of what we experience today as immigrants in the United States. It’s not just a story of struggle—it’s a legacy of resilience, advocacy, and collaboration that has opened doors for so many of us. The connection between Black American struggles and immigrant experiences reveals something powerful: when we build bridges and work together, we create lasting change.

Let’s explore how this shared history has paved the way for the opportunities we have today and why it matters now more than ever.


Pioneers of Change: Building a Legacy

Black immigrants have been at the forefront of change for centuries, influencing movements for abolition, education, and labor rights.

Take John Brown Russwurm, for example. Born in Jamaica, he co-founded Freedom’s Journal, the first Black-owned and operated newspaper in the U.S. His work gave Black communities a platform to share their voices and advocate for equality. Later, as a governor in Liberia, he championed education and self-determination for Black people. He’s proof that immigrants have always been changemakers and leaders in the fight for justice.


The Civil Rights Movement: A Catalyst for Immigrant Progress

The Civil Rights Movement didn’t just impact Black Americans—it created a ripple effect that transformed policies for immigrants too.

Stokely Carmichael (Kwame Ture), born in Trinidad and Tobago, was a powerful voice during the Civil Rights Movement. He coined the term "Black Power" and emphasized self-reliance and grassroots organizing, messages that resonated deeply with immigrant communities worldwide.

Stokely Carmichael
Stokely Carmichael

The Civil Rights Movement didn’t just fight for racial equality—it opened doors for immigrants. One of its greatest impacts was the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which abolished race-based immigration quotas. For the first time, people from regions like Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean could come to the U.S. without the barriers of discriminatory policies. This wasn’t just a win for diversity—it was a game-changer for immigrants. These changes were part of a larger wave of progress fueled by the activism of civil rights leaders. Between 1964 and 1965, three key laws reshaped America:

  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964 outlawed segregation and made workplace discrimination illegal.

  • The Voting Rights Act of 1965 protected political access for marginalized communities.

  • The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 prioritized family reunification and opened the door for skilled professionals from around the world.

Because of the Civil Rights Movement, immigrants gained access to opportunities that were once out of reach. These victories allowed us to contribute in ways that continue to enrich this country. This isn’t just history—it’s our foundation. That’s why we must keep building bridges across cultures and communities.


The Great Migration’s Ripple Effects

When African Americans moved from the rural South to northern cities during the Great Migration, they reshaped urban landscapes and created opportunities that also benefited immigrants.

As cities diversified, race became more defined by skin color than ethnicity. This shift allowed immigrants, particularly Black immigrants, to find their place in these growing urban communities. The labor movements and cultural contributions of Black Americans created pathways for immigrant communities to integrate and thrive.

2015 exhibit at MOMA, NY
2015 exhibit at MOMA, NY

The Legacy of Advocacy: A Shared Struggle for Justice

The fight for desegregation, equal rights, and fair treatment in the workplace didn’t just benefit Black Americans—it laid the groundwork for immigrants of all backgrounds to access opportunities. Landmark victories in civil rights legislation opened doors to education, employment, and political representation. Today, that legacy continues as Black Americans and Black immigrants work together to advocate for equity in areas like labor rights, fair wages, and education.




Action Step: Reflect and Connect

Take time this month to learn about one Black labor leader or immigrant activist, like Stokely Carmichael, Shirley Chisholm, Marcus Garvey, or John Brown Russwurm. Think about how their fight for justice impacts your career journey today. How can you carry their legacy forward in your own work and advocacy?


Building Bridges for a Thriving Future

Black History Month isn’t just about looking back—it’s about using the lessons of the past to build a better future. The shared history of Black Americans and immigrants shows us the power of collaboration, resilience, and advocacy. From the abolitionist movement to modern labor rights, these communities have dismantled systemic barriers and created opportunities for generations to come.

As we honor this legacy, let’s commit to building bridges—across cultures, professions, and generations. Together, we can create a future defined by equity, opportunity, and the belief that we all thrive when we lift each other up.

This is our time to connect the dots between the past and the present—and to keep building those bridges. Let’s thrive, together.




Resource List: Learn More About Black History and Immigrant Contributions

Here’s a curated list of resources to deepen your understanding of the intersections between Black history and immigrant success:

Articles and Reports

  1. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965

    • A comprehensive overview of how the Act reshaped U.S. immigration policy.

  2. Key Findings About Black Immigrants in the U.S.

    • Insights into the growth, contributions, and challenges faced by Black immigrants.

  3. Black Immigrants in the United States: Status, Challenges, and Impacts

    • An in-depth report exploring the experiences of Black immigrants in America.

Books

  1. "Stokely: A Life" by Peniel E. Joseph

    • A biography of Stokely Carmichael, a leader of the Civil Rights and Black Power Movements.

  2. "Marcus Garvey and the Vision of Africa" by John Henrik Clarke

    • Explores Marcus Garvey’s impact on Pan-Africanism and Black empowerment.

  3. "The Warmth of Other Suns" by Isabel Wilkerson

    • Chronicles the Great Migration and its transformative impact on American society.

Organizations

  1. NCNW

    • Resources and mentorship for Black women and their families, empowering communities through education, advocacy, and economic opportunities.

  2. National Black MBA Association

    • Supports Black professionals and entrepreneurs in building networks and advancing careers.

  3. NAACP

    • Advocates for equity, education, and justice for all marginalized communities.

Podcasts and Videos

  1. "The Legacy of the Civil Rights Movement" – HBR IdeaCast

    • Examines how civil rights advocacy influenced workplace equity and diversity.

  2. "Black Immigrants in America" – NPR Podcast

    • Discusses the experiences and contributions of Black immigrant communities.

  3. "African Immigration and the Black Immigrant Paradox" – American Sociological Association Webinar

    • Explores how highly educated African immigrants navigate systemic challenges in the U.S.

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