Black History Month was conceptualized by American Historian Carter G. Woodson to preserve the culture and heritage of blacks in America. A tradition most celebrated in the United States during the calendar month of February. During the celebration of Black History Month, many people have an opportunity to learn of the marvelous contributions to America, made by affluent African Americans such as George Washington Carver, Harriet Tubman, and most recently, civil rights activist DeRay McKesson.
\”This is what we\’re going through as a Black African American, as a US citizen.\” – Trayvon Jordan, Student Panelist
Civil Rights activist DeRay McKesson is focused primarily on issues of innovation, equity and justice. He was born and raised in Baltimore. McKesson graduated from Bowdin College and holds a honorary doctorates from The New School and The Maryland Institute College of Art. McKesson gained notoriety in 2014 by going down to Ferguson, Missouri and helping to organize support for the shooting death of Mike Brown by police officer Darren Wilson. Black Lives Matter is an ideological and political intervention in a world where Black lives are systematically and intentionally targeted for demise. It is an affirmation of Black folks’ humanity, our contributions to this society, and our resilience in the face of deadly oppression, according to their website.
\”As a child, a voice is strong and powerful.\” – Trayvon Jordan, Student Panelist
Black Lives Matter Week of Action with DeRay McKesson was held at Eastern Senior High School in Washington, D.C. This event was hosted by D.C. Public Schools Office of Equity. The panel discussion was lead by Super Star District Public School Students.