Never Stop, Never Settle: The Unyielding Spirit of Black America and the Power of the Vote!
- James Jerome Hankin
- Nov 7
- 2 min read
07 November 2025
Commentary Pep Rally: Vote November 3, 2026
AN EXCERPT FROM MY BOOK “WHAT WE BLACKS NEED TO DO PART 2
For parents and students preparing to research, register,
and VOTE in the November 3, 2026, midterm election.
Lesson #27 of 44: PERSISTENT—Never Stop. Dogged. Unyielding. Stubborn.
Washington DC - These words are the heartbeat of our history. They define the relentless spirit of Black Americans who, against all odds, have pressed forward—never giving up, never backing down. Let’s celebrate three legendary freedom fighters whose persistence paved the way for our progress:
John Lewis—A titan of the Civil Rights Movement, Lewis was known for his unwavering courage and his call to make “good trouble.” From marching across the Edmund Pettus Bridge to serving in Congress, he never stopped fighting for justice and equality.
Fannie Lou Hamer—Born to sharecroppers in Mississippi, Hamer became a powerful voice for voting rights and social change. Her famous words, “I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired,” still echo today. She organized, she spoke out, and she inspired generations to stand up and be counted.
Harriet Tubman—The ultimate symbol of persistence, Tubman escaped slavery and risked her life again and again to lead others to freedom via the Underground Railroad. Her bravery and determination changed the course of history.
These heroes gave everything so we could reach the freedom we enjoy today. We witnessed history with President Barack Obama’s eight inspiring years, and for a moment, some of us relaxed, believing we were finally becoming first-class citizens. But history reminds us: the fight for justice is never over.
When adversity strikes—when leaders like Trump persistently sow division and dominate headlines—our own persistent counter-punchers rise up. Chuck Schumer, Hakeem Jeffries, Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jasmine Crockett, the Black Press, civil rights organizations, unions, teachers, ministers, and progressive people everywhere have fought back, swinging the pendulum toward justice.
Election night, November 4th, marked the birth of new leaders and the passage of Proposition 50 in California. We welcomed New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, and Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger—proof that persistence brings progress. You have a choice: throw illegal low-blow punches like Trump, or counterpunch with the dignity and determination of our freedom fighters. Which will you choose?
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT: Listen to Annie Patterson’s song
“A Way Out of No Way” on YouTube. Let it inspire you.
James Jerome Hankins is an author, journalist, real estate broker, coach, counselor, tutor, caregiver, AFT union member, NAACP Life Member, retired 34-year “shop” teacher, and 1971 graduate of North Carolina A&T State University.
Let this lesson remind you: persistence is our legacy, and jubilation is our victory.
Let’s keep moving forward—together!
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