text: "Today marks the beginning of a new year and the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation which was signed by President Lincoln.  The history of our nation was forever changed by this single act which paved the path for people of African descent to participate in our civil society.  We have made great strides in the fight against injustice and discrimination, but our work continues.  Let us never forget our nation's history and its impact on what we hope to build for future generations.   I had an opportunity to participate in the Huffington Post's Letters to Our Ancestors project. Enclosed is my letter entitled, ""Paying It Forward."""