Joseph Mekael Page

Proverbs 17:3 (NKJV)

“The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the hearts.”

Refined Through Fire: Black History & the Fight for Justice

The struggles of the civil rights movement were like a refining fire, strengthening those who stood for justice. Many freedom fighters endured trials, but their faith and perseverance shone like purified gold.

Unsung Freedom Fighter: Robert Smalls (1839–1915)

If you thought Captain Jack Sparrow commandeering a ship at the port in Pirates of the Caribbean was daring, you might want to reconsider. Think again. You really need to think again. Consider Robert Smalls’s story. Consider the story of Robert Smalls. He did it in real life!

Born into slavery, Smalls stole a Confederate ship, The Planter, right under the noses of Southern troops in Charleston Harbor. He was disguised as the ship’s captain. He navigated past enemy checkpoints with his family aboard. Other enslaved people were also aboard. He delivered them all to freedom. And unlike Captain Jack, Smalls didn’t just escape—he went on to become a U.S. Congressman and a champion for Black rights.

His Impact on Civil Rights:

✅ Escaped slavery by stealing a Confederate ship. He delivered others to freedom.
✅ Lobbied for Black rights and education during Reconstruction
✅ Served in the U.S. House of Representatives (1875–1887)
✅ Helped pass laws protecting freed Black people from re-enslavement
✅ A devout Christian involved in the AME Church

A Word from Robert Smalls:

“My race needs no special defense, for the past history of them in this country proves them to be the equal of any people anywhere.”

History is filled with real-life legends. This Black History Month, let’s shine a light on those whose stories deserve to be told!

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