June 14th 2024.
Beloved by many and known as the Father of Black Studies, Dr. Nathan Hare has sadly passed away at the age of 91 on Monday. His legacy lives on as he is credited with coining the term "ethnic studies" in place of "minority studies." In 1968, he was hired by what was then known as San Francisco State College, now San Francisco University, as the first program coordinator for the institution's Black Studies program. This groundbreaking program was the first of its kind in the United States.
In a video found in SF State's archives, Dr. Hare expressed his hopes for the program, stating, "We are trying to start a Black studies program at state college, and I think it has the greatest and last hope to solve educational problems of the Black race in this country." His passion and dedication to promoting education and opportunities for Black individuals are evident in his words.
Today, SF State's program is known as Africana Studies and continues to thrive. Professor Sharon Jones, who was a student during the protests that took place on campus in the late 1960s, remembers Dr. Hare as a leader during this time, alongside the Black Panthers and the Black Student Union. These protests ultimately led to the establishment of the Black Studies program, which has since been recognized and replicated in schools across the nation. Jones reflects, "I'm here because of Dr. Hare. I'm here because of what we did 50 years ago. I would have never dreamed that I would be a professor today. If it wasn't for Black history, there would be no history."
Dr. Abdul Pitre, the current chair of Africana Studies, also acknowledges the impact of Dr. Hare's work. He recalls sitting in a seat created by Dr. Hare, and emphasizes the importance of Black Studies in providing a different perspective on American society. "Pretty much everything was viewed from a European perspective or a Eurocentric perspective [in the 1960s], and what Black Studies did is it gave a different critique of American society," explains Pitre. He also recognizes the lasting impact of Dr. Hare's work, stating that it will continue to influence future generations.
Even after being let go from the university in 1979, Dr. Hare and his late wife, Dr. Julia Hare, remained committed to addressing challenges within the Black community. They founded the Black Think Tank, using their platform to advocate for justice and promote the wellness of Black individuals through clinical psychology. Until his passing, Dr. Hare continued to be a strong voice in the fight for equality and opportunities for Black individuals.
As we mourn the loss of this influential figure, we also honor his contributions to Black Studies and the ongoing fight for racial justice. Dr. Nathan Hare's impact will be felt for generations to come, and his legacy will continue to inspire and empower Black individuals in their pursuit of education and equity.
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