In the early and mid 1960s a small group of families, the Butlers, Duncans, Griffins, Hendersons and Juanita Orr moved to Concord. The McAfees arrived a few years later. These families had many things in common, and would meet occasionally in each other's homes. Ralph Henderson was the catalyst for bringing many of the families together. With an effulgent personality he would introduce himself to people of color wherever and whenever he would see them.
Many of the black peoples' stories of meeting rejection when trying to purchase a home were similar. We heard, "you don't qualify," "Sorry, but we cannot sell to Negroes" and any of the other excuses used to exclude us from housing. Whites were sometimes told when purchasing a home that there were Negroes living on the block or in the neighborhood. Some of our children of school age were subjected to name calling, and schools were not always sensitive to their needs. So, in September 1973, a small group of concerned black people recognized the need for this area to get together and provide a haven for our children and ourselves, where we could freely discuss current issues, interact with each other, and just have fun.
At one of those early meetings it was suggested by Ralph Henderson that we make plans for a potluck dinner and invite families we knew about who were living in the area. Ralph agreed to serve as chairman of the committee and Juanita Orr agreed to be secretary. A potluck dinner was held at Willow Pass Park, and over 200 people were in attendance including children. Following this gathering, an organizing meeting was held at Ralph and Ida's home. Ralph declined to accept the role of organizing chairman so Marvin Ussery accepted the assignment. Several months later, a constitution and by-laws were approved and Lee Lacy was elected the first president of the Black Families Association.
One of our early fund raising events was a disaster. We had made arrangements with Charlie Brown's Restaurant in the Willows for a dinner dance at which we expected at least 100 people. That evening, only about 20 people showed up and of course we were expected to cover the cost of the dinners. Several of us paid the cost and we ate steak for many weeks after. So as you can see, we've come a long way.
As president, I have accepted the challenging and demanding responsibilties of leadership and management of this organization. I will continue this high level of excellence passed down to me from the BFA founders and past BFA presidents.
We need your help to continue this tradition and to move to the next step. If you are not a member, please join the BFA, and help us make a difference.
The Founders
