The History of the White House Easter Egg Roll

/in , /by

The White House Easter Egg Roll is a tradition that has captivated generations of Americans, blending the Easter spirit with the nation’s most important house. Since 1878, the White House has been home to one of the oldest annual events in its history—the Easter Egg Roll. The festive occasion, held on the South Lawn, brings families together in a spirit of joy and camaraderie.

The White House Easter Egg Roll began in the 19th century, when children would roll eggs down the slopes of Capitol Hill on Easter Monday. This tradition, filled with laughter and excitement, quickly gained popularity, becoming a popular Easter pastime for families in Washington D.C. and beyond. However, as the event grew in popularity, concerns arose about the impact of egg rolling on the grounds of Capitol Hill. The playful activities of children rolling eggs down the hill began to take a toll on the landscape, prompting authorities to take action. In 1876, a ban was placed on egg rolling on Capitol Hill, effectively putting an end to this beloved Easter tradition in that location.

Despite the ban, the spirit of Easter and the joy of egg rolling remained alive in the hearts of children and families. In a moment of inspiration and goodwill, President Rutherford B. Hayes made a historic decision in 1878 that would forever change the course of Easter celebrations in America. Recognizing the importance of preserving traditions and fostering a sense of community, President Hayes opened the South Lawn of the White House to egg rollers.

Throughout history, American presidents and their families have added their own unique touches to the Easter Egg Roll. From egg roll races hosted by the Nixons to wooden egg hunts with signatures of famous people by the Reagans, each administration has left its mark on this iconic event. Over the years, the Egg Roll has been enhanced by memorable attractions and souvenirs. From certificates of participation to plastic eggs with notes from First Ladies, these mementos add to the magic of the day.

The Egg Roll is not just a singular event but a day filled with many Easter related activities that cater to people of all ages and interests. Beyond the traditional egg rolling, attendees can immerse themselves in a world of excitement and fun through a variety of engaging and entertaining activities. One of the highlights is the egg ball game, where participants use specially designed balls resembling eggs to play a unique and lively version of traditional ball games. Another popular activity is the egg toss and catch, where participants form teams and test their coordination and teamwork skills by tossing and catching eggs at varying distances.

In addition to these egg-themed activities, the event offers a range of live entertainment options that cater to diverse tastes and interests. From musical performances and dance showcases to interactive shows and demonstrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and be entertained by. Moreover, storytelling sessions add a touch of magic and imagination to the day, transporting participants into enchanting worlds of  tales and adventures. Storytellers captivate audiences of all ages with their engaging narratives, fostering a love for storytelling and literature among attendees.

The Egg Roll has weathered challenges, including cancellations during wartime and inclement weather. Yet, it has always bounced back, showcasing the resilience and enduring spirit of the White House and its traditions. In recent years, the Egg Roll faced challenges due to the coronavirus outbreak, leading to cancellations by Presidents Trump and Biden, in 2020 and 2021 respectively.

As we look forward to the 2024 White House Easter Egg Roll, let’s celebrate its rich history, cherished traditions, and the joy it brings to families across the nation. It’s a time to come together to celebrate the United States and the Easter holiday.

Cited Sources:

“Easter Egg Roll: Fanfare and Keepsakes.” WHHA (En-US), 2022, www.whitehousehistory.org/easter-egg-roll-keepsakes. Accessed 22 Mar. 2024.

“Easter Egg Roll: Years without an Easter Monday.” WHHA (En-US), 2020, www.whitehousehistory.org/easter-egg-roll-wartime. Accessed 22 Mar. 2024.

“Easter Egg Roll: Games, Old and New.” WHHA (En-US), 2024, www.whitehousehistory.org/easter-egg-roll-games. Accessed 22 Mar. 2024.

“Origins of the White House Easter Egg Roll.” WHHA (En-US), 2023, www.whitehousehistory.org/origins-of-the-white-house-easter-egg-roll. Accessed 22 Mar. 2024.

Image Source:

“Gallery Item Display (U.S. National Park Service).” Nps.gov, 2024, www.nps.gov/media/photo/gallery-item.htm?pg=2940588&id=0e506461-0bbe-437f-ae05-278532644125&gid=2EE520BE-1DD8-B71C-07A70F451399D44D. Accessed 22 Mar. 2024.

Unbought and Unbossed: Celebrating Shirley Chisholm’s Impact on Women’s History

/in , /by

During Women’s History Month this March, it’s crucial to honor the remarkable women who have paved the way for gender equality and empowerment. Among these trailblazers stands Shirley Chisholm, a fearless leader whose unwavering commitment to justice and equality continues to inspire women globally. At Sabre88, we are excited to contribute towards equalizing opportunities between genders, following in the footsteps of trailblazers like Shirley Chisholm. The unbought, unbossed empowerment and advocacy embodied by Chisholm similarly fuels our commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable future for all. 

Shirley Anita Chisholm was born on November 30, 1924, in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, New York. Raised by immigrant parents hailing from Guyana and Barbados, Chisholm’s upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of resilience and determination. Even from a young age, she displayed a fiery passion for education and social justice, propelling her towards a future of advocacy and leadership.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brooklyn College in 1946, Chisholm embarked on a journey that would ultimately reshape American politics. With her sights set on breaking barriers and championing the rights of marginalized communities.

Shirley Chisholm made history in 1968 by becoming the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress, representing New York’s 12th congressional district. Throughout her seven terms in Congress, she left an indelible mark on American politics by championing civil rights, women’s rights, and economic justice. Her fearless advocacy earned her the nickname “Fighting Shirley,” a testament to her unwavering commitment to principle.

During her tenure in Congress, Chisholm fearlessly fought for policies and legislation that aimed to address systemic inequalities and empower marginalized communities. She played a pivotal role in shaping laws that promoted social justice, including initiatives to expand access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities for all Americans. Chisholm’s relentless efforts paved the way for progress in areas such as voting rights, racial equality, and economic empowerment, leaving a lasting impact on the fabric of American society.

In addition to her legislative achievements, Chisholm’s groundbreaking presidential campaign in 1972 further solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in American politics. As the first African American woman to seek the nomination of a major political party, she shattered barriers and inspired generations of future leaders to pursue their dreams without limitations. Chisholm’s bold vision and unwavering dedication to justice continue to inspire activists and changemakers around the world, reminding us of the power of one individual to spark meaningful change.

Shirley Chisholm’s iconic slogan, “Unbought and Unbossed,” encapsulates her fearless spirit and refusal to conform to the status quo. Throughout her political career, she defied expectations and challenged the entrenched power structures that marginalized women and people of color. As the voice of the marginalized and disenfranchised, Chisholm shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for future generations of women to pursue their dreams and aspirations.

Shirley Chisholm’s impact extends far beyond her groundbreaking achievements in politics. Her legacy continues to inspire women and activists around the world, reminding us of the power of courage, resilience, and determination in the face of adversity. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Sabre88 would like to recognize the commitment Shirley Chisholm made to the fight for gender equality and empowerment.

Cited Sources:

Michals, Debra.  “Shirley Chisholm.”  National Women’s History Museum.  National Women’s History Museum, 2015. March 8, 2024. 

“Shirley Chisholm.” Biography, Biography, 4 May 2021, www.biography.com/political-figures/shirley-chisholm. Accessed 8 Mar. 2024.

Zapata, Christian. “Shirley Chisholm – Facts, Accomplishments & Legacy | HISTORY.” HISTORY, 18 Dec. 2009, www.history.com/topics/us-government-and-politics/shirley-chisholm. Accessed 8 Mar. 2024.

‌“Shirley Chisholm (November 30, 1924 – January 1, 2005).” National Archives, 18 Nov. 2020, www.archives.gov/research/african-americans/individuals/shirley-chisholm. Accessed 8 Mar. 2024.

“Shirley Chisholm for President.” National Museum of African American History and Culture, 30 Sept. 2016, nmaahc.si.edu/shirley-chisholm-president. Accessed 8 Mar. 2024.

“Shirley A. Chisholm Biography» Women of the CBC» Avoice – Congressional Black Caucus Foundation» African American Voices in Congress.” Avoice – Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, 2022, avoice.cbcfinc.org/exhibits/women-of-the-cbc/shirley-a-chisholm-biography/. Accessed 8 Mar. 2024.

‌Photo Credit:

“Shirley Chisholm (American Politician and Activist) | Britannica.” Encyclopædia Britannica, 2024, www.britannica.com/biography/Shirley-Chisholm/images-videos. Accessed 8 Mar. 2024.

The Role of the HubZone Program in Empowering Black Communities

/in , /by

In today’s society, economic disparities disproportionately affect communities of color, particularly Black communities. Amidst these challenges, initiatives like the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HubZone) program are positive opportunities for economic empowerment and growth. From limited access to capital and resources to systemic barriers in accessing opportunities, these disparities hinder economic advancement and perpetuate cycles of poverty and inequality. Addressing these issues requires intentional efforts and targeted initiatives aimed at leveling the playing field. Sabre88 has been enrolled within the HubZone program for the past year. In this blog post, we will discuss the significant role of the HubZone program in bridging economic disparities and empowering Black communities across the United States.

The HubZone program is a federal initiative established to stimulate economic development in distressed areas by providing preferential access to government contracts. The program targets areas characterized by high unemployment rates, low median household incomes, or a combination of both. Businesses located in these designated HubZones can gain certification, unlocking opportunities for growth and sustainability.

At the heart of the HubZone program lies its ability to empower Black communities by offering avenues for entrepreneurship and job creation. By designating targeted areas as HubZones, the program directs resources and investments to communities that have historically been overlooked or marginalized. The ripple effect from HubZone designations fosters local business development, promotes job opportunities, and spurs economic activity from within.

One of the most significant barriers facing Black entrepreneurs is access to capital and contracts. The HubZone program addresses this challenge head-on by providing preferential treatment in federal contracting opportunities, including set-asides and sole-source awards. This levels the playing field, allowing Black-owned businesses in HubZone areas to compete more effectively and secure lucrative contracts that drive growth and sustainability.

As we celebrate Black History Month, it’s essential to recognize the role of initiatives like the HubZone program in advancing economic equality and justice. Moving forward, we must continue to advocate for policies and programs that dismantle systemic barriers and uplift underserved communities. By doing so, we can create a future where economic opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of race or zip code.

The HubZone program represents more than just a government initiative; it symbolizes a commitment to bridging economic disparities and empowering Black communities. Sabre88 is proud to be a HubZone company that is actively pursuing HubZone contracts. Through strategic investments, targeted support, and unwavering dedication, we can build a more inclusive and equitable society that represents all individuals. As we reflect on the significance of Black History Month, here at Sabre88 we are committed to the ongoing journey toward economic justice and empowerment for all.