A Message from Dr. Chiquita T. Tuttle

Coordinator, African American Pastoral Center

The months of May and June have been filled with activity, joy, and meaningful reflection. From graduations and birthdays to the excitement of summer vacation planning, this season continues to remind us of the importance of community, hope, and new beginnings.

We celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates and send blessings to families enjoying reunions and well-deserved rest. At the same time, we are mindful of the transitions many are navigating—especially our graduate students seeking new opportunities and employment. This is truly a time of both gratitude and anticipation.

Honoring Juneteenth: A Legacy of Freedom

As we enter June, we commemorate Juneteenth—a powerful celebration marking the end of slavery in the United States. While the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865, that Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. This moment, now nationally recognized as Juneteenth, represents not only freedom but also resilience and the ongoing struggle for justice.

It's essential to recognize that the abolition of slavery was a gradual process across the U.S.:

Northern States

Beginning with Vermont in 1777, northern states like Pennsylvania (1780), New Hampshire and Massachusetts (1783), and Connecticut and Rhode Island (1784) began the slow but steady path toward abolition through gradual emancipation laws.

Other States

States such as Delaware, Maryland, Kentucky, and Oregon continued to allow slavery until the ratification of the 13th Amendment in December 1865, which formally abolished slavery across the country.

While we celebrate the historical significance of Juneteenth, we also acknowledge that the work for racial equality and justice is ongoing.

Celebrating Our African American Saintly Seven

The African American Pastoral Center (AAPC) continues to uplift the lives and legacies of our Saintly Seven:

Venerable Pierre Toussaint
Venerable Mother Henriette DeLille
Father Augustus Tolton
Servant of God Mother Mary Lange
Father Martin De Porres Maria Ward
Servant of God Julia Greeley
Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman

We offer beautiful prayer posters for each of these inspiring figures. If you are interested in receiving one or more for your parish, school, or personal devotion, please contact us at 510-267-8386.

A New Era for the Catholic Church: Pope Leo XIV

We rejoice at the election of Pope Leo XIV, whose diverse international experience and pastoral sensitivity mark a hopeful new chapter for the global Church. His leadership is grounded in a clear, principled vision for the Church that includes:

Peace, Justice, and Truth
A firm commitment to human dignity, inclusion, and Catholic social teaching
Thoughtful approaches to bioethics and technology, especially the ethical use of artificial intelligence
Advocacy for religious freedom, multilateral diplomacy, and the care for our common home

We are encouraged by Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to justice, diversity, and human flourishing in the modern world.

Health and Wellness: Addressing Hypertension

In May, the AAPC focused on educating the African American community about hypertension—a critical health concern. We distributed:

Blood pressure monitors
Educational materials and logs for tracking readings
Guidance on preparing nutritious meals as part of a healthy lifestyle

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Alameda County Public Health Department and Nutritional Services Program for their partnership and generous support.

Community Engagement: Building Stronger Partnerships

Legislative Advocacy

This month, AAPC leaders joined the NAACP in Sacramento for a powerful day of advocacy at the State Capitol, focusing on urgent issues such as:

Racial justice
Food insecurity
Legislative reform

Combating Food Insecurity

We are also proud to partner with the American Heart Association in a new initiative to combat food insecurity within our African American parishes. Stay tuned for updates in our next issue!

Supporting Sickle Cell Patients

The AAPC is teaming up with the American Red Cross to support sickle cell patients by boosting blood donations. A special blood drive will be held on:

📍 June 7th

📍 St. Benedict Parish – Father Jay Matthews Hall

We invite all who are able to support this lifesaving effort.

Let us continue to walk forward in faith, unity, and service. Thank you for being part of our growing community and for the love you share with one another.

With gratitude and hope,

The African American Pastoral Center