CalEvents:Nov/Nov 17
From Sankofapedia
Notable events for November 17
Date
Event
Significance
November 17, 1911
Founding of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
On this day, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, the first African-American fraternity founded at a historically Black college or university (Howard University), was established. Omega Psi Phi played a significant role in promoting African-American unity, leadership, and service to the community.
November 17, 1961
Assassination of Patrice Lumumba's associates
On this day, several of Patrice Lumumba's close associates were executed in the aftermath of the Congo Crisis. Lumumba, the first democratically elected Prime Minister of the Congo, had been overthrown and later assassinated in January 1961. These executions highlighted the violent political turmoil that followed the country's decolonization.
November 17, 1973
Augustus Tolton declared "Servant of God" by the Catholic Church
On this day, Augustus Tolton, the first openly Black Roman Catholic priest in the United States, was declared a "Servant of God" by the Catholic Church. This declaration was the first step toward his possible canonization as a saint, recognizing his pioneering role in African-American religious history.
November 17, 1989
Nelson Mandela meets with anti-apartheid activists from outside South Africa
On this day, Nelson Mandela, still imprisoned, met with anti-apartheid activists from outside South Africa to discuss the ongoing struggle for liberation. This was a significant moment in the internationalization of the anti-apartheid movement, which had gained increasing global support.
November 17, 2006
South Africa passes Civil Union Act legalizing same-sex marriage
On this day, South Africa became the first country in Africa and the fifth in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. This progressive move reflected South Africa's post-apartheid commitment to human rights and equality under its new constitution.
November 17, 2017
Mugabe placed under house arrest during Zimbabwean coup
On this day, Zimbabwe’s long-time president Robert Mugabe was placed under house arrest by the military during a coup that would lead to his eventual resignation. This marked the end of Mugabe's 37-year rule and brought hope for political and economic change in Zimbabwe.