Illustration inspired by a Pan-African gathering c.1920. (Generated by Kyle P. Pennerman, 2024. AI.)

How a bold vision in 1920 birthed the iconic red, black, and green Pan-African flag that unites millions today.

In 1920, Marcus Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) unveiled the red, black, and green Pan-African flag during their convention in New York City. Garvey’s vision was to create a symbol of unity, pride, and resistance for people of African descent worldwide. The flag’s colors—red for the bloodshed in the fight for liberation, black for the people, and green for the lush lands of Africa—capture the essence of Pan-Africanism and its enduring fight for justice.

From IBW21.org

About the Institute of the Black World 21st Century

IBW 21 is committed to enhancing the capacity of Black communities in the U.S. and globally to achieve cultural, social, economic and political equality and an enhanced quality of life for all marginalized people.

Learn more at ibw21.org