Why did the men of the Cincinnati Black Brigade have no uniforms or weapons?

The men of the Cincinnati Black Brigade, formed during the American Civil War, lacked uniforms and weapons primarily due to the systemic racism and discrimination that marginalized African American soldiers at the time. The Union Army was initially reluctant to enlist Black troops, and when they were finally allowed to serve, they often received little support in terms of supplies and equipment. This lack of resources reflected the broader societal attitudes and policies that devalued the contributions of Black soldiers. Consequently, the Brigade had to organize and fight without the proper attire or armaments typically afforded to military units.