A Historic Handshake: Celebrating Native Voices and Racing Dreams on February 21

On February 21, 1828, the world witnessed the birth of the Cherokee Phoenix, the first newspaper published by Native Americans and in a Native American language. Spearheaded by renowned Cherokee polymath Sequoyah, this publication broke barriers in a time when such initiatives were rare. The Phoenix still runs today, proving the resilience and determination of the Cherokee Nation in preserving their culture and language.

Fast forward to 1948, and we see NASCAR coming to life in Daytona Beach, Florida, founded by Bill France to safeguard and enhance the sport of auto racing. Racing enthusiasts were tired of unscrupulous promoters draining resources, so France stepped in to bring fairness to the track. Just a few decades later, President Richard Nixon shook hands with China, transforming diplomatic ties with a single visit. These historical moments remind us that sometimes, it’s the simplest acts that lead to the most significant changes. Whether it’s a newspaper, a racing circuit, or a handshake that reshapes the world, each of these stories is worth celebrating!