myMA
Elevating Black Excellence During Black History Month
February is Black History Month. This month's journey began in 1926, proposed by historian Carter G. Woodson. At its start, the celebration was one week long, but the first month-long celebration took place at Kent State University in 1970. While confining the celebration of black excellence to one month is not our goal, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee would like to use this month to acknowledge the talent, intelligence, joy, and societal contributions from the Black community.
Here are some important Black scientists and mathematicians. We encourage you to look up anything that you may not have heard of.
- Daniel Hale Williams - He successfully completed the first open heart surgery. Click here for more information.
- Joan Murrell Owens - Owens is known for her work in marine biology. Click here for more information.
- Alice Ball - She is known for developing a leprosy treatment. Click here for information about her and here to watch the short film about her work.
- Angie Turner King - She was a Chemist, Mathematician, and professor to Creola Katherine Johnson, one of the subjects of the movie Hidden Figures. Click here for information on King and here for information on Johnson.
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Lloyd Hall - His work in food preservation left him with 59 patents in the United States alone. Click here to read about his work.
Recent Opportunities for Learning and Discussion at the Upper School
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Advisories
Feb 10 - Black History Month Advisory: Overview
Feb 24 - Black History Month Advisory: Implicit Bias -
Student Council Movie Night & Discussion: Just Mercy
Held on January 22
Discussion led by DEI student leaders held on January 28 -
Student Council Movie Night & Discussion: Hidden Figures
February 19, Zoom and Walter Auditorium
Discussion led by DEI student leaders, date TBD
What can white people do to help during Black History Month?
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Listen to what Black communities need and learn about current movements and political issues.
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Read and listen to Black stories.
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Recognize your privileges.
- Check in with yourself. How can you improve? Work towards being anti-racist.
Support Black-owned businesses. Apps like Miiriya can help.
Recommended Poetry Courtesy of Poets.org
“Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou
“Forever” by Paul Laurence Dunbar
“Frederick Douglass” by Robert Hayden
“Let America Be America Again” by Langston Hughes
“Making History” by Marilyn Nelson
“little prayer” by Danez Smith
“This Body II” by Renée Watson
“Declaration” by Tracy K. Smith
“This Is Not a Small Voice” by Sonia Sanchez
