The Saint John Newcomers Centre celebrates Black History Month by spotlighting Black community champions whose tireless work builds bridges in Greater Saint John. This year marks 30 years of Black History Month in Canada, themed “Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.” Our latest Racialized 506 Conversations podcast features two such visionaries: Ralph Thomas and David Peters, co-founders of PRUDE Inc. and the New Brunswick Black History Society.
Pioneering Inclusion Through PRUDE Inc.
David Peters recalls his proudest moment: co-founding PRUDE Inc. (Pride, Race, Unity, Dignity, Education) in 1964 with Griffith Skinner. “We, as a Black organization, formed PRUDE, which opened its doors to everybody. That was never heard before. People were shocked that Blacks did it.” David shares.
This bold step challenged stereotypes and created inclusive spaces, expanding anti-racism efforts that still resonate today.
Overcoming Resistance with Personal Courage
Both men faced prejudice head-on. David confronted a classmate’s wartime bias in 1957 Ryerson class: “Bob, I’m part German… Get to know the individuals.” Ralph stood firm in the Northwest Territories: “I do not answer to that name… When you know my name, Ralph Thomas, then you and I will communicate beautifully.” These stories highlight resilience, turning confrontation into opportunity.
“Black History is World History”
David passionately declares, “Black history is world history,” citing Black inventors like Garnet Morgan (gas mask, traffic lights), Dr. Charles Drew (blood plasma storage), Frederick Jones (portable refrigeration), and George Washington Carver (300 non-harmful patents, including water-based paints). “We have touched every one of your lives,” he asserts, weaving global impact into local pride.
Key Highlights:
- 🖤 “Black history is world history” — David passionately lists Black inventors like Garnet Morgan (gas mask & traffic lights), Dr. Charles Drew (blood plasma storage), Frederick Jones (portable refrigeration), and George Washington Carver (300+ patents for good), proving Black contributions touch every life globally.
- 🖤 Pride through action — David recalls founding PRUDE Inc. (Pride, Unity, Dignity through Education) in 1964 as a Black-led organization open to all, shocking skeptics and modeling true inclusion.
- 🖤 Standing tall — Ralph shares confronting racism head-on, from Northwest Territories work sites to Kings Landing boards, turning challenges into opportunities by demanding respect.
Their dialogue underscores history’s power: from Quakers aiding Black Loyalists in 1783 to today’s fight against microaggressions. As David notes, “We have touched every one of your lives, whether you like it or not.” Ralph adds, “Throw history against the wall, and we make it stick.”
Listen to the full inspiring conversation: [LINK TO PODCAST]
