Lecture is highlight of Black History Month events at Liberty

John Stokes, a national figure in the legendary Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court trial, speaks at Liberty University on Feb. 13. Behind him is a picture of a tar-papered school building in Farmville, Va., for African American students in the early 1950s. The students went on strike for a better building.

In honor of those who fought for the freedom of African Americans in our country, Liberty University’s Center for Multicultural Enrichment (Center4ME) is holding a series of events throughout the month of February.

One highlight was a lecture by John Stokes, a national figure in the legendary Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court trial. The lecture was held on Feb. 13 and was based on his well-known book, “Students on Strike: Jim Crow, Civil Rights, Brown and Me.”

“Liberty University as an institution of higher education is thrilled to have a national icon that has so dramatically shaped the fabric of the American educational system,” said Melany Pearl, director of the Center4ME.

Stokes was one of the original litigants in the case on May 17, 1954, when the U.S. Supreme Court announced its decision that, “separate educational facilities are inherently unequal.” The decision effectively denied the legal basis for segregation in Kansas and 20 other states with segregated classrooms. His presentation will be filled with stories from his experiences surrounding the case. He will be signing copies of his book at the Liberty University Barnes and Noble Bookstore following his lecture.

Stokes’ visit was only one of 10 unique events being sponsored by the Center4ME, including a Harlem Nights Ball, a “Being Black in 2010” discussion, a gospel concert and many more.

The purpose of the Center for Multicultural Enrichment is to unify the various cultural and ethnic populations on the campus.  The Center serves as an advocate to minority students and seeks to celebrate cultural diversity by offering experiential learning opportunities to all students. The department thrives on providing awareness of students’ diverse backgrounds by offering opportunities to embrace culture through classes, the arts, or social activities.