Conduct a comparative analysis of Civil Rights Activism in both the American South and South Africa, analyzing tactics employed by communities to promote equality for marginalized groups, to empower students with a profound understanding of the progress and ongoing struggle for equity via a civic action project integrating art.
The Legacy Museum in Alabama deeply resonated with me. During my 6-hour visit, I explored two of the three exhibits, which spanned from the Middle Passage to modern incarceration. Personal testimonies and primary artifacts highlighted the often-overlooked struggles of African Americans, as well as the lasting impact on their communities and families. The most powerful takeaway was the ongoing fight for freedom and equity, underscoring the enduring legacy of racism in America.
I learned how resilient my ancestors were and how their struggles paved the way for my opportunities. I’ve gained a deeper respect for the everyday people who fought for the silenced. Both movements succeeded because local communities believed in basic human rights. Professionally, I realized that history not only repeats itself but also ripples across the globe, reflecting the same injustices and tragedies in other countries. It’s a powerful reminder of the global impact of systemic oppression.
A powerful, unplanned moment was touring the Bham Civil Rights Institute, seeing the 16th Street Baptist Church, and walking through Kelly Ingram Park. The museum taught me about the historic protests that began in that very park. As I walked, I felt a sense of familiarity, realizing I had been there before, protesting George Floyd’s tragic death. It was a profound realization that I stood in the same place where past generations fought for civil rights, just as I did years later. I was in awe.
My goal was to prioritize teaching history in the classroom while broadening its scope beyond the United States, showing students that the struggles our country has faced—and continues to face—also occur globally. To implement my expedition, I plan to collaborate with team members to design impactful, intentional lessons that meet standards, expand students' worldviews, and empower them to create projects that express their understanding and educate others on important historical events.
After reviewing the information from my expedition through lessons and a created website, students will select from a choice board of art presentations to show their understanding of both movements. This approach offers flexibility, allowing them to express their knowledge through various options while fostering autonomy and creativity. It ensures academic standards are met while expanding global awareness, encouraging students to connect historical struggles with current events in the world.
After analyzing the insights from my expedition, students will create a comprehensive art piece, which they will present to community stakeholders. They will also answer questions on a panel to educate the public on the two movements. I also plan to present to fellow educators, enabling them to incorporate the knowledge from my experience into their own classrooms. This approach will help spread awareness and inspire future learning on a broader scale.