Black At Howard University: Back in the Day

Mr.Richard Wright, an Alumni of Howard University Class of 1964, entered the lecture hall with an urge to speak about his experiences when he was a student. He began his speech mainly talking about the importance of education, especially if you are an African American. Mr.Wright said that during his early years, whites would look down on the fact that African Americans wanted to become educated. They would say things like, "You cannot be black and ignorant at the same time." To the whites, education was a weapon for blacks. However as time passed, Wright explained that education continued to decline for blacks with desegregation. But at Howard University, he was one of the many educated black men. Back then, Howard was considered boujee and there was a middle class arrogance that was on the campus around 1960. In the fall of 1961, Malcolm X and Bayard Rustin came to campus for a debate. Wright said he learned of the debate while in his Government class. Everyone attended the debate because it was a big deal for Malcolm X to be on campus. The debate was held in Cramtom Auditorium and the whole student body trickled in until the whole auditorium was full. Malcolm's main message to the students was: "The privilege that you have in being black and a university should be a privilege you cannot take for granted. Your primary purpose is not to join clubs, organizations, or mine, but to be the most powerful intellect you can. Your responsibility to bear the power of your mind in the liberation of your people. We need power of a young mind in the struggle today." The students heard this felt the need to take immediate action and become more involved. Wright stated that, "Howard had a role. It would be the students would lead. A legacy of student activism was launched during 1961. Howard created a major, if not the major student activism organization in the nation. They produced Stokely Carmichael. The students helped turn the rights of civil rights in America. They made a difference in the nation." Mr. Wright left in 1964, but the students continued to help with the activism. But in 1968, they decided that they needed a Black Studies Program and would not leave the 'A' building until it was created. Being a member of the administration, Wright said that the administration is more than likely to listen to students rather than listen to faculty. There is certain role that cannot be relinquished or passed onto anyone, and that is played by students. We must be activists and politically engaged. We are NOT free yet. Lastly, Mr.Wright questioned, "Where is the HU in the engagement of the issues in society today?" After hearing that, I began to think long and hard. There are so many young, talented, outspoken individuals on this campus and that is truly all you need to have an active and politically engaged student body. WE can make it happen. YES WE CAN!

Alexis Nicole Thrasher

@02661188

Group 19