Blog Posts Related to the African American Community

The Affordable Care Act: Making a Difference for African-Americans

Ed. note: This is cross-posted from the The Grio

It has been two years since President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act, and already, the new law is improving the lives of African-Americans.

 Since March 2009, more than 2.4 million African-American seniors with Medicare have received free preventive services such as diabetes screenings. About 410,000 more African- American young adults who would otherwise be uninsured gained coverage due to the law. In addition, 5.5 million African-Americans with private health insurance now have coverage for preventive services without paying an extra penny at their doctor's office.

 And 10.4 million African-Americans with private insurance coverage no longer face lifetime limits thanks to the new health care law -- in other words, your insurance company can no longer drop your coverage at a time when you need it most.

Obama Administration Celebrates Black History Month

Throughout the past month the President joined Americans across the country in celebrating Black History Month and the many contributions and rich culture of African Americans. For centuries, African Americans have broken barriers and enriched the story of our nation - from classrooms to boardrooms and from industry to our legendary military. This year’s theme, "Black Women in American Culture and History," invited all to reflect on the role African American women have played in shaping the narrative of our nation’s history.

During Black History Month, visitors who toured the White House were welcomed by volunteers and viewed displays that showcased photos of prominent African American women with Presidents or at the White House. Photographs featured during the tour can be viewed here. The White House also highlighted black women throughout the government and their accomplishments through blog posts on the WhiteHouse.Gov/AfricanAmericans webpage, as well as with a video message from the First Lady.

Featured blog posts:

• First Lady Michele Obama: Celebrating Black Women in American Culture and History
• The Tuskegee Airmen visit the White House
• Inside the National Museum of African American History and Culture
• In Performance: White House event celebrating Blues music
• Honoring Unsung Heroes During Black History Month
• Vice President Biden and Dr. Biden host the Third Annual Black History Month Reception

In addition to honoring African American women –each week during Black History Month, the Obama Administration held events highlighting themes from the President’s Blueprint for an America Built to Last. These themed weeks gave Cabinet Members and Administration officials an opportunity to continue to discuss the President’s plan to build a stronger economy through American Manufacturing, American Energy, Skills for American Workers, and a commitment to a renewal of American Values, as well as how this plan will impact all Americans, including African Americans.

For a recent report on the President’s agenda and the African American Community, please click here. The President’s 2012 proclamation for National African American Heritage Month can also be found here.

Black History Month Activities

Sunday, January 29:

• The First Family visited the Corcoran Gallery of Art to view the "30 Americans" exhibit, a collection of thirty prominent African American artists of the last three decades.

Wednesday, February 1:

• Secretary of Education Arne Duncan hosted a conference call with African American Stakeholders to discuss the Administration’s commitment to making college more affordable for all Americans. Secretary Duncan also discussed the President’s Blueprint to provide skills for American workers.