There seemed to be no seats left in the main theatre, but students still came filing in from their first hour classes for the second annual Black History Month Assembly. Originally intended for freshmen and seniors only, the program Feb. 18 held by Progressive Generation Club (PG) welcomed sophomores and juniors too.
The PG co-presidents, seniors Dajon Thomas and Leah Ramsaran, opened by explaining what the club is all about, and the importance of the assembly. The assembly is one of the club’s major activities, aside from supply drives and volunteer tutoring for elementary students. The club focuses on raising awareness for African American culture, and promoting a healthy and diverse atmosphere.
The assembly’s theme was “Social Justice,” in light of recent events affecting the African American community, like the deaths of Eric Garner and Trayvon Martin. “Rather than focusing on the achievements of civil rights activists, though clearly influential, we thought we should focus on some of the more little known events that occurred within our lifetimes,” Ramsaran said.
Following a video created by Thomas highlighting events from Selma to Ferguson, the presidents introduced guest speaker Mr. William Jackson. Jackson grew up in Fort Lauderdale, graduated from Dillard High School and went on to graduate Cum Laude from Florida State University. He is currently the director of the Urban League of Broward County, helping to mentor local youth.
His speech described his family line, consisting of former slaves and freed men, and he also talked about how racism has affected America on a whole, but also communities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale.
After his speech, Jackson answered questions from students such, “Do you think blacks and whites are still judged on their color” and, “what do you think about the intimidation and militarization of the police?”
The assembly finished with a performance of “Flight of Freedom” by the dance company.
PG meets in room 3218 on Wednesdays during lunch, and they welcome newcomers.
