An expert on the American Civil Rights Movement spoke to the students in Upper School last Friday at ASLP. ACS Chief Christopher M. Richardson, spoke to around 70 students in grades 9 to 11 on Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks and others who challenged racism in the 1960s in the US.
Consul Richardson, who was touring Gran Canaria on official diplomatic business, decided to visit our school to explain the Civil Rights Movement and the significance and impact it has today. He spoke not only from a historical perspective by going over the major events but also from a personal one. He gave many examples of conditions of what it was like when he was growing up in North Carolina.
The students were captivated and engaged on what Consul Richardson had to say and surprised him not only with the number of questions our students asked but at their social awareness as well.
Consul Richardson is the co-author of a book called the Historical Dictionary of the Civil Rights Movement which explains events, people and legal cases during this fascinating era in American history. He has also practiced law and litigated some cases in both federal and state courts regarding civil rights issues.
The whole event was managed and organized by the students from Upper School who not only made the introduction speech, photos and conclusion, but were also responsible for preparing the room with the podium, projectors, chairs, tables, and more.
Finally, Consul Richardson explained to students the impact the Movement has on us today. Not only did this lead to similar campaigns for women’s rights and then gay and lesbian in the 70s and 80s, but also every time today when we see a protest, many groups of people use the same or similar tactics.
Thank you M. Richardson.
