5 Ways to Honor Black Veterans on Memorial Day in Washington, D.C.

Pictured: a veteran saluting. Credit: Unsplash.

Memorial Day in Washington, D.C. i powerful occasion.  While we remember all who gave their lives in service, it’s also vital to highlight the sacrifices and overlooked contributions of Black veterans. From the Revolutionary War to today, Black servicemembers have fought for freedoms they were often denied at home.  

Here  are 5 ways to honor Black veterans this Memorial Day:  

1. Visit the African American Civil War Memorial and Museum 

Located at 1925 Vermont Ave NW, this memorial honors the 209,145 members of the United States Colored Troops who fought in the Civil War. The museum tells powerful stories of their bravery and struggles. 

2. Attend or Support Events Highlighting Black Military History 

Look for special Memorial Day events hosted by cultural institutions like the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. These often feature panels, film screenings, or exhibits that shed light on Black military experiences across generations. 

3. Lay Flowers or a Wreath at Their Graves 

At Arlington National Cemetery, you can visit sections where Buffalo Soldiers and other Black veterans are buried. Taking the time to leave flowers or simply reflect at these gravesites is a quiet but powerful gesture of respect. 

4. Support Black Veteran Organizations 

Organizations like the National Association for Black Veterans (NABVETS) or the Black Veterans Project work year-round to preserve the stories of Black soldiers and fight for equity in veterans' services. Memorial Day is a great time to donate, volunteer, or amplify their work. 

5. Reflect at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Memorial 

While these memorials do not specifically focus on race, many Black veterans served and died in these conflicts. Take time to look for names of Black soldiers and reflect on their sacrifice in the broader context of America's ongoing struggle with racial justice.