February is Black History Month, a time set apart to honor and recognize the many incredible contributions of Black Americans who paved the way for a better today.
In the firearms space, many notable historic Black Americans stand out:
Harriet Tubman, abolitionist and political activist who was known as the “Moses of her people,” helping slaves gain their freedom through the Underground Railroad. Tubman carried a small pistol with her during these risk missions to protect herself and the people she was rescuing, but also to deter runaway slaves from turning back out of fear.
Ida B. Wells, journalist, civil rights leader, women’s suffrage activist, and researcher who lived from 1862 to 1931. Among Wells’ famous quotes is: “A Winchester rifle should have a place of honor in every Black home. And it should be used for that protection which the law refuses to give.” Another is: “The only times an Afro-American who was assaulted got away has been when he had a gun and used it in self-defense.”
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., world-renowned religious and civil rights leader who, although a nonviolent peace-seeking man, believed in the right to self preservation and protection. In fact, in the 1950s was denied his concealed carry permit in Alabama, a may-issue state.
Malcom X, acclaimed religious leader and human and civil rights activist, who has several famous quotes related to self protection, including this one: “It is criminal to teach a man not to defend himself when he is the constant victim of brutal attacks. It is legal and lawful to own a shotgun or a rifle. We believe in obeying the law.”
While we pay homage to this sampling of great leaders of years past, we should also remember the Henry Ford quote, “The most important history is the history we make today.”
For that reason, we want to highlight some members of the next generation of Black Americans who are making positive waves in the firearms and defensive living spaces today:
Antonia Okafor Cover
Antonia is the Founder of EmPOWERed 2A and the National Director of Women’s Outreach for Gun Owners of America. She is a campus carry advocate with a heart for empowering college students and women outside of college with the means to be able to protect themselves.
With the tagline “Gun Rights are Women’s Rights,” Antonia Okafor regularly travels with Gun Owners of America to host shooting events for women and teach about Second Amendment rights.
Follow Antonia on Instagram.
Maj Toure
Maj is the founder of Black Guns Matter, a lifestyle brand and movement with a mission for educating and informing urban communities across the United States about their 2nd Amendment rights, responsible gun ownership, conflict resolution, and more.
Follow Maj on Instagram.
Rhonda Mary
Rhonda is a political commentator and 2nd Amendment advocate who is passionate about human rights, and particularly the inclusion of Black women into gun rights topics. She has a weekly podcast and an active YouTube channel, where she dives into hot button topics affecting Black Americans and society at large.
Follow Rhonda on Instagram.
Philip Smith
Philip is the Founder and President of the National African American Gun Association (NAAGA), which was started to inspire Black Americans to take advantage of their 2nd Amendment rights, purchase a weapon, and train for proper and responsible firearm use. NAAGA is based in Georgia and has chapters throughout the United States.
Follow NAAGA on Instagram.
Pewologist and Miss Heraux
Pewologist and Miss Heraux are entrepreneurs, social media influencers and YouTubers focused on whole-family firearm education and entertainment. Together, the pair make up “Pew Army,” sharing tips and advice for anyone interested in firearm safety, training and tactics.
Follow Pewologist and Miss Heraux.
These six pioneers in the world of defensive living are just a few of the many amazing Black Americans currently doing big things for the concealed carry community. Plus, we expect the movement to grow exponentially based on the trends we’ve seen over the past two years in Black firearm ownership – for example, “a 58.2% increase in gun purchases by Black men and women during the first half of 2020,” according to Forbes.
We at Concealed Coalition are here to train the next generation of law-abiding American citizens how to use firearms responsibly, legally, and effectively – but also how to deescalate conflicts before they become violent and dangerous. Our state-certified CCW trainers come from all walks of life, but all embody the common mission of “Guardians Always, Warriors When Needed.”
Whether you’re just getting started as a new gun owner, or you’ve been CCW permitted for years and need to brush up on your skills, you’re just a few clicks away from getting certified and joining The Coalition.
