In Tennessee, "Souls of Black Folk," first published by W. E. B. Du Bois in 1903, played a key role in several joint African American History Month celebrations held by Nashville HUD and the Social Security Administration Office of Hearing and Appeals.

On February 13th, Nashville HUD Field Office Director Dr. Edward L. Pringle had the honor of delivering keynote remarks on "Souls of Black Folk - Essays and Sketches" on its centennial anniversary. Recently republished and widely available, the book W. E. B. Du Bois (left) is called by the publisher an "…extraordinary work (that) not only recorded and explained history, it helped to alter its course. Written after Du Bois had earned his Ph.D. from Harvard and studied in Berlin, these 14 essays contain both the academic language of sociology and the rich lyrics of African spirituals, which Du Bois called "sorrow songs."

Dr. Pringle addressed the group with firsthand knowledge of his past obstacles, and challenged those in attendance to develop a plan to achieve future success. He drew a picture of his past achievements while growing up poor as a sharecropper's son in East Texas. He spoke on the importance of recognizing African Americans, and all Americans, who are and have made a difference in our country.

An assembly of exciting singers, historic recitations and speeches were performed by participants from three federal agencies, Fisk University, and invited individuals such as Mr. L. M. Collins, Ph.D., Professor of English (Emeritus), Fisk University.

The Social Security Administration's Ms. Paulina Jones, Mistress of Ceremonies (right), opened the ceremonies by providing a basic history of what "Souls of Black Folk" represents. Following her remarks, the audience sang James Weldon Johnson's "Lift Every Voice and Sing," led by Nashville Bureau of Public Debt Manager Erick Wright.

Students from Fisk University recited essays from "Souls of Black Folk" with poignant elegance - an expert blend of unforgettable presentation and timeless delivery. The crowd came to its feet many times to clap and applaud throughout the many outstanding presentations made during Nashville's 2003 Black History Month celebration - and left with a better understanding of history, a sense of tremendous progress in our nation, and pride in each other, regardless of race, color or creed.