SPS Observes Black History Month

In the first two days of February, which is Black History Month in the United States, 17 historically Black colleges and universities received bomb threats — why? And why does the prospect of a Black female Supreme Court Justice create division?

 

These are two of the questions that SPS faculty member Dr. Litzrudy Justinvil asked the community to consider in his Chapel talk on Thursday, Feb. 3, as the School began its observance of Black History Month. And, he added, they are some of the questions we must talk about, not to shock but to educate — along with, What does Black history mean to you? What does American or world history mean to you? Are they the same, or different? Justinvil explained that these are important questions we must research and discuss to reveal the root causes of injustice while considering whose story we tell, and whose story we know.

 

“I am a Black man. My presence alone can be seen as a threat to people, to society. It is unfortunate, but this is what I have to deal with,” said Justinvil. But, he continued, that reality encourages him — forces him, even — to engage in conversation so that people can know the real him.

 

Justinvil grew up in Haiti in a family of educators and physicians; he earned his B.S. from Palm Beach Atlantic University and his M.D. from the University of Miami. Outside of his role at SPS, he is vice president of HaitiFirst, a non-governmental organization that promotes education, technology, and health access in Haiti. Justinvil also counts singing reggae music, community service, and great conversations among his passions. At SPS, he is in his third year of teaching and is an assistant coach for the boys junior varsity lacrosse team.

 

The U.N. General Assembly proclaimed 2015-2024 as the International Decade for People of African Descent, citing the need to strengthen national, regional, and international cooperation in relation to the full enjoyment of economic, social, cultural, civil, and political rights by people of African descent, and their full and equal participation in all aspects of society. During its observance of Black History Month, SPS will build on the International Decade for People of African Descent theme by focusing on recognition, justice, reconciliation, and development.

 

Events at the School throughout the month will promote a greater knowledge of, and respect for, the diverse heritage, culture, and contribution of people of African descent to the development of societies. Plans for the coming weeks include themed community meals, documentary watch parties, guest speakers, a BIPOC student art exhibit, and an SPS Onyx Affinity Group Festival.