Life has been a long and fulfilling journey for me. It started in 1949 as a teenager who had just graduated from the former Fifth Avenue High School. As a youngster it was apparent to me that the system in “Up South Pittsburgh” had relegated Blacks to second class citizenship, and something motivated me to make the three Cs an integral part of my life—caring, compassion and concern.
In November 1952 during the Korean Conflict I was drafted into the army where I encountered acts of racism. I was like millions of youngsters away from home for the first time, and there were no parents to call or lean on. Often I have looked back on those years and asked myself what was I thinking about during my military career that I challenged some of the issues that I did and often alone.
In November 1954 I returned home to face the same situations that I had left behind, but I was more mature and better prepared to face them.
Many Blacks and Whites often ask me, “Don’t you get tired?” My answer is simply “I do the best I can” and “I wish I could do more.”
It was surprising, but gratifying when I received a letter and then a phone call from NABHI Christian Ministries that they wanted to honor me with the Lifetime Award for Excellence in Public Service. The chairperson continued by explaining the affair was being held at the Rivers Club located in One Oxford Center, 301 Grant St. The date is Oct. 9, 2015 from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. After expenses all remaining proceeds will be donated to the Kingsley Association. If you have any questions about the affair please call 412-661-1919, ext. 1.
(Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick is a weekly contributor to the Forum page.)