Seventy-four years ago today, President Harry Truman signed Executive Order 9981 officially desegregating the armed services. This historical imperative would not have occurred without the bravery of the Port Chicago 50. Fifty men who, following the worst home front disaster in WWII, stood against the racist practices embedded into the Navy at the time. During World War II the Port Chicago Naval Magazine was a critical link in the Navy’s efforts to arm US sailors and ships heading to the Pacific Theater. Due to policies of segregation within the Navy, all the stevedores tasked with loading these munitions where Black, while all the officers were white. These officers would routinely prioritize speed in loading over safety and training. On July 17, 1944, a series of explosions at the Naval Magazine killed 320 men, injuring 400 more. Within weeks, the surviving stevedores were ordered back to work, removing the debris and remains left in the aftermath of this disaster. By the beginning of August these men were ordered back to loading munitions, without any further training, at nearby Mare Island. While 258 refused the initial order, all but 50 returned to work after being threatened with death by firing squad. The Port Chicago 50, were tried and convicted of mutiny, receiving prison sentences and dishonorable discharges. The convictions of these men still stand today. However, their work stoppage brought to light racist practices and injustices across the armed forces and forced our nation to face issues of equality in the military and beyond. Today the US armed services are one of the most diverse work forces in the country; a legacy lead by the Port Chicago 50. On the anniversary of the desegregation of the armed services, we invite you to join us in honoring these men. Efforts to finally exonerate the Port Chicago 50 are currently underway by community members, elected officials like Representative Mark DeSaulnier, the East Bay Regional Park District, and many others. Let us know in the comments if you would like to get involved.