Community celebration honors Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., Rosa Parks, and Anton Seals Jr. while promoting literacy among youth
On Sunday, February 22nd, Gifts From God Ministry, located at 1818 West 74th Street, Chicago, hosted a powerful Black History Month Celebration that honored civil rights icons, recognized community leaders, and promoted literacy among the next generation.
Apostle St. John Chisum and Pastor Gay Chisum led the celebration, which paid tribute to two pillars of the civil rights movement: Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. and the late Rosa Parks. The award ceremony recognized their enduring legacy and continued impact on the fight for justice and equality.
The event also celebrated contemporary community leadership by honoring Anton Seals Jr., Lead Steward and Co-Founder of Grow Greater Englewood. Seals received an award recognizing his dedication to revitalizing and strengthening the Englewood community through grassroots organizing and economic development.
In a touching moment, Anton Seals Sr. spoke during the ceremony, expressing pride in his son’s commitment to community service. “He was proud of his son,” witnesses noted, highlighting the intergenerational nature of community work and the importance of fathers affirming their sons’ dedication to uplifting others.
Guest children’s author Kenyatta Scott brought the celebration to life for young attendees by reading from her Violet book series. Scott shared the story “Violet and Derek Travel to Their Grandma’s House,” engaging children with literature that reflects their experiences and celebrates Black family traditions.
The focus on youth literacy continued as the event concluded with Black authors’ books being gifted to the youth in attendance. This commitment to placing diverse literature in the hands of young people ensures that Black History Month’s lessons extend beyond the celebration into children’s homes and daily lives.
