“In Studying the Past, We Can Develop Extraordinary Vision”
On Tuesday, February 16, 2022, the network-wide Boys Hope Girls Hope team took an extraordinary journey through “Black History: Past, Present, and Future” with Dr. Yohuru Williams, Distinguished University Chair and Professor of History and Founding Director of the Racial Justice Initiative of the University of St. Thomas.
At a time when many young people are being told that we “shouldn’t talk about it,” Dr. Williams led a discussion of what it means for the youth we serve when we choose to speak honestly with them about what they see today – and about what happened in the past. “We do damage when we pretend what they see is invalid,” said Dr. Williams, “But when we have these conversations, with their sadness and pain, as well as their great joy and opportunity, our youth become empowered. If we are going to evolve, we can’t hide our history.”
In evoking his hero, John Lewis, Dr. Williams said, “In studying the past, we can develop extraordinary vision.” He reminded us that we could think about ways to elevate communities by tackling their history.
“The essential question is: how do we build a spirit and practice of mindfulness encircling justice and anti-racism work to become stronger allies for the communities we serve?” said Dr. Williams. “Most importantly, we can’t lose hope. It’s exciting to talk to organizations like Boys Hope Girls Hope because you give hope.”
Dr. Williams, center bottom, and a few members of Boys Hope Girls Hope enjoying the conversation
“Most importantly, we can’t lose hope. It’s exciting to talk to organizations like Boys Hope Girls Hope because you give hope.”
A highly regarded author and expert on the Civil Rights and Black Panther movements, Dr. Williams has been featured on numerous radio shows, television programs, and documentaries. He is also one of the hosts of the History Channel’s Web show “Sound Smart.” We thank Boys Hope Girls Hope Network board member Fr. Chris Collins for inviting Dr. Williams to inspire us, challenge us, and remind us that…
the future is for the brave!
