D&E celebrates Black History Month

Speakers encourage continued fight for justice

Submitted photo Black History Month convocation speakers Javier McCoy, second from left, and the Rev. Father Paul Abernathy, third from right, receive appreciation and plaques from Director of Campus Activities and Multicultural Programs Jonathan Barrett, left, Black Student Union President Jay Kilpatrick, center, and BSU members Jakeya Perrin, second from right, and Megan Augustine.

Submitted photo
Black History Month convocation speakers Javier McCoy, second from left, and the Rev. Father Paul Abernathy, third from right, receive appreciation and plaques from Director of Campus Activities and Multicultural Programs Jonathan Barrett, left, Black Student Union President Jay Kilpatrick, center, and BSU members Jakeya Perrin, second from right, and Megan Augustine.

ELKINS -- The theme of honoring our ancestors by continuing to fight for justice rang out in messages from featured speakers in recognition of Black History Month at Davis & Elkins College. Javier McCoy, a higher education professional, and Orthodox Christian priest the Rev. Father Paul Abernathy shared their insights during a special convocation.

McCoy traced the origins of Black History Month to 1926 when the achievements of African-Americans were recognized during national Negro History Week. February was officially designated as Black History Month in 1976 by former President Gerald Ford.

McCoy touched on the accomplishments of many black Americans - Garrett Morgan, inventor of the gas mask and traffic signal, and Otis Boykin who developed dozens of electronic control devices. However, he emphasized that if it were not for the ancestors who fought for freedoms, these engineers and other African-American professionals may not have been able to reach their achievements.

"We are reminded of the sacrifices our ancestors made for us to be here today," McCoy said.

Abernathy told the group gathered at D&E that it is now the responsibility of the current generation to continue the fight for equality without dwelling on the past.

"This must be a month where we reconcile with an America of the past," Abernathy said. "History is something of ours to write. The choice is surely ours. Let us not believe that freedom and justice are always guaranteed. The only guarantee is choice. We must go forth with determination ... go forth in the spirit of unconditional love."

Davis & Elkins College President Chris A. Wood offered closing remarks saying Black History Month is a time to remember, reflect and celebrate the accomplishments of African-Americans. Encouraging the group to make a positive impact on society, he offered a quote from American abolitionist Harriet Tubman: "Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world."

The program was sponsored by Davis & Elkins College Multicultural Programs and included a performance of the "African American National Anthem" by student Megan Augustine and an art display by student Jakeya Perrin.