A day for inspiration and education
A variety of speakers educated, inspired and informed attendees at the 11th Annual Center for African American Studies Conference, held at The University of Texas at Arlington.
The conference, held Feb. 16, began with a presentation on the National Juneteenth Museum. With a goal of opening in Fort Worth on June 19, 2025, the museum will focus on the history of emancipation as it swept across the United States.
Opal Lee, known as the “grandmother of Juneteenth” explained the significance of the holiday, which commemorates June 19, 1865, when news of the federal order ending slavery in the United States reached enslaved people in Galveston, Texas. This was more than two months after the end of the Civil War and more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in January 1863.
“Juneteenth means freedom … I’m talking about freedom for everybody,” Lee said. “When we can give that over to all the people in these United States, we’re going to turn this country around. If people can be taught to hate, they can be taught to love.”
The Juneteenth museum will be located in the historic Southside neighborhood in Fort Worth. Museum spokesman Jarred Howard told the audience about one of the initial meetings held with those who live in the area.
“At the end of meeting, they felt heard. People just want to be heard,” Howard said. “And maybe we would be a better society if every once in a while, we stopped talking and just listened.”
Tamara Brown, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at UTA, spoke on overcoming stigmas that prevent many people from seeking vital mental health care. She urged those in attendance to recognize the power of someone asking for help.
“Don’t dismiss it,” Brown said. “It took a lot to say that, and to trust you that much to say it? That’s a moment.”
A panel of student leaders shared their unique UTA student experiences. A common thread was the impact the COVID-19 pandemic.
Isiah Joseph, senior management major and vice president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., said he returned to campus as a junior having lost time to get involved. But he says UTA’s size made it easier to jump in quickly.
“One of the pros of UTA is that it is so easy to become somebody influential,” Joseph said. “All you have to do is try.”
Umarae Ogans, a senior majoring in business, emphasized the importance of taking on leadership roles.
“My best piece of advice would be to get involved on campus and you’ll be able to make the most of your experience,” Ogans said.