The student leaders sit around a table in the library, anxiously awaiting the arrival of some very special guests. The Memory Project is a long-running group led by our students that focuses on giving back to the community. For example, they donated the bench installed in honor of Elizabeth Eckford in 2018. Which was placed on 16th Street where Eckford sat.

“I want to know what it means to you young people. To go to school at a living museum, with living history,” Richard Hyde, the visiting British diplomat said. “ This isn’t only important in America; my daughter is also learning about the history of this school and the civil rights movement in America.”

There was a long open discussion between Hyde and the students about their appreciation for civil issues.

“The history of this school and the importance all inspire us to be the best,” said junior Faisal Khan.

“The tragedies that have happened after the Little Rock Nine show that our history doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Racism didn’t stop after the Little Rock Nine, which is important when discussing our history. We must look forward.” said senior Jamil Jackson.

Our guest, the British Diplomat, shared his wisdom and experience from his many years of travel, introducing the perspective of someone from another country across the globe.

“In my country, we are beginning to look inward with our discrepancies when dealing with racism, violence against women, and the LGBT community. We strive to be inclusive, it’s not just about comfortability. I’m used to being the odd one out. I struggle with the importance of difference. We are all human.” said Hyde.

Strong discussion continued on for the rest of the block.

“When I’m depressed about racism or those facing discrimination based on race, gender, or sexuality, talking to young people makes me feel better. You guys are the future,” said Hyde.