Engaging Virtual Book Talk on Black History
In celebration of Black History Month, the National Civil Rights Museum is excited to host an inspiring virtual book discussion featuring the renowned historian, Crystal R. Sanders. She is the mind behind the thought-provoking book, A Forgotten Migration: Black Southerners, Segregation Scholarships, and the Debt Owed to Public HBCUs. This virtual event promises to delve into the crucial yet often overlooked subjects surrounding segregation scholarships, shedding light on their long-lasting effects on Black higher education.
Understanding Segregation Scholarships
Through A Forgotten Migration, Sanders presents an insightful narrative about the historical strategies employed by Southern states during the pre–Brown v. Board of Education era. They sought ways to bypass the legal requirements of educational integration. A significant aspect of this was incentivizing Black students to pursue their studies outside the state. Unfortunately, this led to financial and emotional burdens, as many students faced significant hurdles while trying to access education far from home. Additionally, this practice systematically contributed to the underfunding of historically Black colleges and universities, extending their challenges further.
A Deep Dive into Historical Research
Sanders' scholarly work prominently highlights the endurance and resilience of these students, while also illustrating the broader impact of educational segregation. Her research does not just recount historical events but connects these past injustices with present-day inequalities in education, making her insights even more relevant in contemporary discussions on racial equity.
Continuing the Conversation on Education and Rights
This virtual meetup marks Sanders' impressive return to the museum’s Book Talk Series, where she previously discussed her work on A Chance for Change: Head Start and Mississippi's Black Freedom Struggle. The museum's ongoing mission is to spur meaningful discussions that link the historical civil rights struggles with modern educational issues, highlighting their interconnectedness.
Remarks from Dr. Russ Wigginton
Dr. Russ Wigginton, the President of the National Civil Rights Museum, expresses enthusiasm about hosting Dr. Sanders once again. He states, “We are thrilled to host Dr. Sanders once again and bring attention to this crucial aspect of American history. Her work continues to shed light on the enduring legacy of segregation and the long fight for educational equity.”
About Crystal R. Sanders
Crystal R. Sanders is an Associate Professor of African American Studies at Emory University, with accolades for her expertise in African American history and the history surrounding Black education. Her work and research have garnered widespread recognition, earning her various awards and fellowships. Sanders remains an instrumental voice in championing discussions on racial equity within education, encouraging crucial dialogues that are important for societal growth.
Event Details for Interested Participants
The upcoming online event is complimentary and accessible to the public, making it easy for anyone interested in understanding this critical topic to participate. Educators from Memphis Shelby County Schools (MSCS) who attend the full session will even be eligible for professional development hours through PLZ, thus integrating educational growth with this important historical discussion.
Registration Information
To join the book talk, registration is essential to receive a participation link. Prospective attendees can easily sign up or find further details by contacting the National Civil Rights Museum directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of the virtual book talk with Crystal R. Sanders?
The talk focuses on the themes of segregation scholarships and their impacts on Black higher education, as explored in Sanders' book.
When is the book talk scheduled?
The virtual event is scheduled during Black History Month, providing an excellent opportunity for engagement on this important topic.
Is the virtual event open to everyone?
Yes, the online book talk is free and open to the public, welcoming anyone interested in civil rights history.
How can educators benefit from attending?
Educators from Memphis Shelby County Schools will receive professional development hours for attending the entire session, allowing them to gain valuable insights while fulfilling professional training requirements.
What should participants expect from the discussion?
Participants can expect a robust discussion on historical segregation practices, their implications in current times, and the ongoing fight for education's equitable access.
