More events on tap for Sunday afternoon and Monday.
by Kathy Foster
Celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the changes he brought about in the U.S. was the focus of Saturday night’s banquet hosted by New Vizh-uhn, Inc. at the Ag Center in Chipley.
Debra Brown of New Vizh-uhn welcomed those attending Saturday night’s event and introduced Saxophonist Aaron Hayden, Pastor Tonya Hill, and Soloist Cynthia Wynn, each of whom participated in the program.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Lou Cleveland, was introduced by Washington County School Superintendent Joe Taylor. Cleveland, a member of the Washington County School Board, reflected on the accomplishments of Dr. King and noted that the public school system played a major role in the changes made since integration.
Dr. Cleveland talked about her personal experiences teaching in newly integrated schools and noted that she taught in schools where she was the one in the minority. She also paid tribute to Coach Al Robinson who befriended her in one of those classes. Additionally, she praised all of the black educators who worked in Washington County to bring integration into being.
Pointing out that it’s always hard to adjust to a new normal, Dr. Cleveland said it is still the goal of the Washington County school system to provide an outstanding education whether the students are black or white. She added that the educators want academic achievement for every student.
However, Cleveland also pointed out that everyone can make a difference in their community.
