On this Day in History February 3rd, 1870, the 15th amendment to the US constitution was ratified granting African American men the right to vote. The amendment declared that the right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of race color or previous condition of servitude. Noble in language in reality it took almost 100 years before it was fully realized.
Reconstruction in the post-civil war era denied the noble language its application through the use of poll taxes and literacy tests. It wasn’t until the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that all legal barriers at the state and local levels that denied blacks the right to vote under the 15th amendment were removed.
In 1965 the Dakota center was founded by Father Phillip Hoelle and Dean Hoban. Both men worked at the University of Dayton. The emphasis was working with youth in the area. Of all the many community and social endeavors Father Phil undertook in his lifetime, it was the Dakota Center that was perhaps the most rewarding for father Phil. Just as the Center in its current location was opening in the year 2000, Father Phil had this to say is Christmas message. In the inspiring words of the Dalai Lama, “the Dakota Center wants to be a haven for those without protection and a guide for those who lost the way, a ship for those with oceans to cross as well as a bridge for those with rivers to cross, a sanctuary for those in danger, a lamp for those without light, a home for those without shelter, and a servant to all we need.”
Today we live into that vision of Father Phil with all of our heart mind and soul. The staff of the Dakota Center is honored to contribute to such noble and holy work. Each and every day we meet our community where they are and provide what they need. We thank you for being a part of this effort. With your interest, prayers, and support, we are able to continue our work.
