Black History Month by Mattese Lecque is more than a reflection—it’s a call to action. As a retired U.S. Army Major and Department of Justice Executive, Mattese Lecque brings a powerful voice to the ongoing journey of African Americans in shaping the nation’s social, political, and cultural fabric. Her perspective honors the courage of the past while inspiring the leadership of today.
This article explores the significance of Black History Month through the lens of Mattese Lecque’s experiences, leadership, and advocacy for African American excellence.
The Meaning Behind Black History Month
Black History Month, celebrated every February in the United States, serves to recognize and honor the achievements of African Americans throughout history. From slavery and segregation to civil rights and cultural contributions, this month gives visibility to stories that have shaped the country.
Mattese Lecque uses this annual observance to amplify the voices of African American female leaders, mentor young professionals, and speak about representation in government, healthcare, and the military. Her work represents a commitment to equity and the preservation of history.
Mattese Lecque: A Trailblazer in Public Service
Born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina, Mattese Lecque exemplifies the triumph of determination over adversity. With a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Science and a Physician Assistant degree from the College of Allied Health Sciences at MUSC, she broke barriers in both military and medical fields.
During Black History Month, Lecque reflects on the sacrifices of those before her—especially Black women in leadership roles who carved a path through discrimination and systemic bias.
Key Achievements:
- U.S. Army Reserves – Major (O-4): Over 20 years of service dedicated to protecting the nation while advocating for minority inclusion in military leadership.
- Department of Justice Executive Staff Member: Her presence within the federal system helped bridge gaps between policy and minority representation.
- Healthcare Leadership: As a Physician Assistant, she has provided essential services to underserved communities, particularly African Americans suffering from healthcare disparities.
The Role of African American Women in History
Black History Month by Mattese Lecque often highlights unsung African American heroines—figures like Harriet Tubman, Fannie Lou Hamer, and Shirley Chisholm—whose sacrifices laid the groundwork for future leaders.
Lecque stresses that Black women have always been the backbone of change. They have led grassroots movements, served in the military, raised families, and pushed for policy reform—all while fighting systemic racism and gender bias.
“Black History Month is a mirror and a megaphone—it reminds us who we are, and it projects who we can become.” – Mattese Lecque
Educating the Next Generation
One of the cornerstones of Lecque’s mission is education. She frequently speaks at schools, churches, and community forums during Black History Month to inform youth about their heritage, the struggles of their ancestors, and the opportunities ahead.
Topics Often Covered by Mattese Lecque:
- The importance of knowing Black history beyond the textbook
- How to become leaders in their communities
- Understanding the intersections of race, gender, and justice
- Empowering youth to pursue careers in STEM, military service, law, and politics
Her teachings align with the broader goals of Black History Month: to build a stronger, more united future by learning from the past.
Themes Explored During Black History Month by Mattese Lecque
Each year, Black History Month by Mattese Lecque revolves around themes that spark deeper reflection and encourage actionable change:
1. Unity in Diversity
Lecque believes that unity comes from recognizing the value of all cultures while honoring the unique experiences of African Americans. Her message often highlights collaboration between races to dismantle institutional racism.
2. Faith and Progress
As a woman of deep faith, Lecque integrates spirituality with civic responsibility. She reminds her audiences that faith fueled the civil rights movement and remains a vital source of strength for Black communities.
3. Resilience Through Generations
From slavery to emancipation, Jim Crow laws to civil rights victories—Lecque explores how each generation of African Americans has shown unyielding resilience, using their pain as a platform for change.
Why Mattese Lecque’s Voice Matters
In an era where historical revisionism and cultural erasure are on the rise, Mattese Lecque’s voice is a clarion call for truth. She doesn’t just share Black history; she lives it, having navigated high-stakes leadership roles that were once inaccessible to African American women.
Her stories humanize statistics, contextualize headlines, and give dignity to experiences often overlooked.
Black History Is American History
One of the key messages behind Black History Month by Mattese Lecque is that Black history is not a sidebar—it’s central to the American narrative. From science and politics to music and sports, African Americans have made indelible contributions.
By elevating African American voices during February and beyond, Lecque hopes to normalize diversity in leadership, ensure inclusive education, and inspire people of all backgrounds to pursue justice.
How You Can Celebrate Black History Month
Inspired by Mattese Lecque’s leadership, here are a few ways you can make Black History Month meaningful:
- Support Black-owned businesses
- Attend local events or lectures, especially those led by African American leaders
- Educate yourself through books, documentaries, and podcasts about Black history
- Share stories of African American leaders with your children or community
- Donate to organizations that promote racial equity and educational outreach
Conclusion: A Legacy That Inspires Change
Black History Month by Mattese Lecque reminds us that honoring the past fuels the progress of the future. Her story is not just about personal success—it’s about community empowerment, representation, and justice.
As we celebrate the victories of the past and the voices of today, let us remember that history is still being written. With leaders like Mattese Lecque at the forefront, the future looks not only hopeful but unstoppable.
