Unsung Heroes

Unsung heroes are similar to Stand Up Speak OUT Wind Changers in that they truly made a difference.  What is unique about them is that they are no longer with us, and the impact of their lives often has gone unheralded.  They were Stand UP Speak OUT Wind Changers in their era, the unsung heroes throughout history.  These people went the extra mile to create equality and justice for all people, even when it created personal hardships because it wasn't the popular thing to do.  Below are a few we have discovered. Some are individuals who are part of the discriminated group; others are allies for those who endured discrmination.   Email us if you know of an unsung hero who needs highlighting.  Click here for an article about Unsung Heroes by Howard Zinn, a columnist for The Progressive

  1. Juanita Hairston, on April 1, 1944, made a name for herself and helped start a movement.  Click here to read how Civil Rights Came Slowly, Softfly to Colorado Springs.  It might have been April Fool's Day in 1994, but Juanita was no fool.  She was smart enough to take action for justice years before it all began in other parts of the country.  She is a new hero to us, and a reminder of why we do what we do.

  2. Obed Dickinson was a pioneer preacher of First Congregational Church in the 1850's and 1860's.  His 14-year tenure was embroiled in controversy because of what was referred to as "Negro sympathy."  What was he doing that so infuriated some folks?  He invited black into the church, baptized them and married them.  He was criticized for being so brazen.  And, to top it off, he continued to preach about the sings of slavery, despite recommendations that he stop.  Click here to read the "rest of the story."