The National Coalition of Black Veteran Organizations will host a special presentation on November 12, 2026, at noon at the West Oakland Senior Center, 1724 Adeline Street, Oakland.
The presentation will highlight Colonel Allen Allensworth’s life and legacy and the Coalition’s request that Governor Gavin Newsom honor the legendary Buffalo Soldier with an honorary posthumous promotion to brigadier general in the California National Guard for Veterans Day. The Coalition believes this honorary recognition could be granted at little or no expense to the state.
Governor Newsom has been invited to attend in person, send a representative to speak on his behalf, or provide a letter addressing the request to be read to the gathering. Invitations have also been extended to Oakland elected officials.
The Coalition believes Allensworth’s contributions to California make him especially deserving of recognition. In 1908, he helped establish the town of Allensworth in Tulare County, a community founded, financed, and governed by Black Americans. His vision advanced education, self-determination, opportunity, and dignity in the face of racial discrimination. In 1974, during Governor Ronald Reagan’s administration, the historic townsite became part of California’s state park system as Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, recognizing the enduring importance of that legacy.
Featured speakers include Charles Allensworth, the Colonel’s great-great-nephew, who will discuss his great-great-uncle’s history as an educator and community founder. Charles Blatcher, III, principal advocate for the promotion and chairman of the National Coalition of Black Veteran Organizations, will discuss the effort to secure the Governor’s recognition.
Through this presentation and its continuing advocacy, the Coalition seeks to redress historical injustices, and the lack of recognition afforded Black Americans who served in the nation’s defense.
The Coalition considers the request a matter of national interest to Black veterans and the public nationwide. That interest is heightened, in part, by Newsom’s publicly expressed willingness to consider a presidential campaign. The organization believes his handling of the appeal offers an opportunity to demonstrate responsiveness to veterans and respect for the contributions of Black Americans.
The event is free, with limited seating available to the public. The facility is accessible to people with disabilities. #### Contact Information cnmmmf@aol.com
