Black Paris: Harlem Hell Fighters
Harlem Hell Fighters
Harlem Sign
This memorial sign was made to honor the Harlem Hell Fighters and their contribution to War World 1. One of the Harlem Hell Fighters that we were able to study was Rafael Hernandez. He was born in Puerto Rico to Afro- Puerto Rican immigrants. Hernandez spent his early life studying and practicing music. His display in music made him create connections, that led him to James Reese Europe, a ringleader of a highly regarded band. During the war, they enlisted in the military. They were, however, discriminated against and often discouraged to fight with Americans. The French, however, encouraged them to fight alongside them and they were later highly decorated and honored.
