Celebrating 46 Years
This February, Eye on History marks its 46th anniversary, a milestone for the longest-running column on Black history in Western New York. To celebrate, I will host a special anniversary event at the Frank E. Merriweather Jr. Library on February 8th and February 15th from 1 to 5 p.m. in the Dr. Eva M. Doyle Auditorium, located at 1324 Jefferson Avenue. This free event is open to the public and will feature historical displays, inspiring speakers, youth awards, music, and the premiere of my first film, The Real History of Haiti.
The Eye on History column began in 1979 in the Challenger and now appears in the Criterion newspaper, the oldest Black-owned publication in Western New York, published by the Merriweather family. The column highlights little-known facts about African American history and serves as a vital resource for teaching and preserving our heritage.
A Journey Rooted in Community The column's longevity owes much to the guidance and support of the Merriweather family. Mr. Frank E. Merriweather Jr., the Criterion's editor and publisher, provided me the opportunity to continue my work when the column transitioned from the Challenger. I fondly remember weekly visits to the press on William Street, where he shared invaluable stories about Buffalo’s African American history. Later, I built a lasting friendship with his wife, Mrs. Evelyn Merriweather, engaging in many late-night conversations on a range of topics. Their unwavering encouragement has been a cornerstone of my journey.
My late husband, Brother Romeo Doyle Muhammad, also played a pivotal role in this work. He supported me by delivering the column to the Merriweathers each week and offering thoughtful feedback on my writing. His advice, such as the importance of crafting a strong "punch line" to engage readers, remains with me today.
Expanding the Reach of History Over the years, Eye on History has grown beyond the written word. It has inspired books, billboards, T-shirts, and even puzzles, all designed to educate and celebrate African American history. Notable T-shirt designs have honored icons like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, Nelson Mandela, and Julian Bond. I vividly recall receiving a phone call from Julian Bond himself, granting permission to use his image—a moment I will never forget.
Additionally, my books, including Eye on History: Articles on African and African American History, Lost History, Forgotten History (2021) and my latest publication, My 45-Year Journey Teaching African and African American History in the Home, School, and Community (2023), serve as lasting tributes to the mission of the column.
The Eye on History billboards, displayed across Western New York, have highlighted figures like Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., further cementing the column's role as a teaching tool for the community.
A Call to Action: Preserving History Writing this column for 46 years has been a labor of love, involving countless hours of research at the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library and the Buffalo History Museum. As efforts to erase or diminish African American history persist, columns like Eye on History are more vital than ever. The theme for this year’s celebration, Keeping African American History Alive in 2025 and Beyond, underscores the importance of preserving our stories for future generations.
I invite you to join me on February 8th and February 15th as we honor this milestone and recommit to keeping our history alive. I am deeply grateful for the support of my readers and the community, without whom this journey would not be possible.
“To God be the Glory.”