As February comes to a close, it is a great time to look back at the month of February, and its role as Black History Month. Black History Month became federally recognized in 1976 in recognition of the successes of the Civil Rights movements in the 1950s and 60s. Negro Week and other pro-black days of remembrance were the predecessors that laid the ground work for this month of reflection, respect and celebration. The father of Black History Month is Carter G. Woodson; the infamous scholar believed that it was essential for Black identity to have celebrations of historically significant Black Figures of all backgrounds and the month of February was chosen as it held the birthdates of two key figures in the fight for recognized rights of African Americans, Abraham Lincoln and Federick Douglass. The State of Massachusetts outlawed the practice of slavery in 1783 but it would take over another 60 years until slavery was outlawed across the nation with the passing and ratification of the 13th Amendment in 1865.  Worcester has been recognized today as a home to many notable abolitionists and a safe haven for many freedmen and women. Many of those in the city who were vehemently against the institution were part of the Free Soil Party. For those who want more information about Worcester and its connection to civil rights, a visit to the Worcester Historical Museum’s Worcester in the 1960s and other exhibits will relay a profound depth and connection.

This article will be asking two Black student-athletes what Black History Month means to them and how their racial identity has shaped their college experience both on and off the court. Men’s Basketball graduate student Zion Hendrix and Women’s Basketball Nyah Thomas, two key figures not only on their teams but in the community, have offered their time to shed some deeper insight.

Questions:

How would you describe the sense of community you feel on campus with other black students and particularly other black student-athletes?

There is a great culture of support amongst the black students on campus both in athletics and in other aspects of student life. -Zion

Do you have any black mentors who you would like to thank for your success?

I’ve had plenty of great black mentors over the years but I think my greatest mentor would have to be my father. In my eyes, he is the finest example of what it means to be a good man. He’s always taught me to hold myself to a standard worthy of the privileges I’ve been given. -Zion

I'd have to say my dad. He’s definitely the best example of a strong, successful black man in my life. He’s always taught me how to hold myself to a higher standard than those around me and rise above all adversity. -Nyah

Do you believe that the school could do more to amplify black voices on campus?

I think that there is always more a school can do. The most important thing for me is that there is conversation about how the school can assist us.  -Zion

Yes, I believe that every school could do more to amplify Black voices on campus. It's essential for our institutions to foster an environment where all voices are heard and valued equally. The biggest step in the right direction would be more representation, seeing another black professor on campus is always a good feeling. -Nyah

What is a black athlete that you look up to and could you explain why you look up to them?

Simone Biles for sure. The way she has openly spoken up about her mental health struggles as a black woman and athlete is inspiring and opens the door for much more conversations about the issues the black community faces. -Nyah

What is something about black culture you think more people should know about?

One aspect of Black culture that I wish more people acknowledged is its diverse history. Additionally, how it encompasses a multitude of different traditions, art forms, and languages. Black culture is not one-dimensional; it is a tapestry woven from the experiences of many people from many different backgrounds. -Nyah

A special thank you to both Nyah and Zion for taking time out of their busy schedules to answer these questions. Zion, and the Men’s program will be heading to the NCAA tournament after dramatically winning the MASCAC tournament last Saturday, they take on Catholic University Friday at 5:45pm, not far from DC’s U Street Corridor that was once the heart beat of Black Culture in America. 

~ Mal Hawkins ~