As I wrap up the final week of Black History Month, I want to express my gratitude to President Donald Trump and his administration for hosting another celebration of black history. Unlike the Biden administration, which often rolled out the red carpet for wealthy black celebrities, Trump invited grassroots activists who have been working tirelessly for real change in their communities. This choice speaks volumes about his commitment to the black community.

On February 20, black conservatives from across the nation gathered in Washington, DC. Influencers like David Harris Jr. and Rob Smith, along with political candidates like CJ Pearson and U.S. Senator Tim Scott, came together to hear Trump speak and celebrate their contributions to America. This vibrant gathering was particularly striking given that the mainstream media had spent weeks insisting Trump was trying to cancel Black History Month.

The sight of hundreds of black conservatives didn’t sit well with those who wish to perpetuate the narrative of Trump as a racist. Leftist podcasters and critics labeled the attendees as “pawns,” while incendiary preachers like Jamaal Bryant resorted to racial slurs, calling them “coons” and “runaway slaves.” It’s disheartening that he failed to recognize the pride and excellence displayed by those who gathered to honor the legacies of figures like Frederick Douglass, Kobe Bryant, and Harriet Tubman.

Bryant’s use of the term “runaway slaves” is intriguing. It highlights a crucial distinction: a slave versus a runaway slave. Our ancestors were once shackled to the Democrat Party, which offered free housing, clothing, and food in exchange for labor. Many remained on the Democrat plantation, beaten down and too demoralized to seek a better path. In contrast, a runaway slave studied their condition, sought knowledge, and created a plan for escape. They developed an exit strategy to secure their freedom. This is who black conservatives are today. We are descendants of Harriet Tubman, who bravely led others to freedom.

Bryant’s label of “runaways” is fitting. It takes immense courage to stand up for our beliefs and forge a new path.

We are sending a clear message to the Democrat Party: We are the new generation of leaders who refuse to settle for government handouts. We desire the freedom that our ancestors and American soldiers fought for. We want the right to express our thoughts, to create businesses in a free market, to worship as we choose, and to bear arms. We are breaking free from the Democrat policies that have kept us stagnant for decades.

We are proud runaways, and we look forward to helping others find their freedom as well.