On April 15, 1947, Jackie Roosevelt Robinson, playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers, broke the color barrier by becoming the first Black baseball player to appear in a modern big-league game. Fifty years later Robinson's number was officially retired, and in 2004, April 15 became officially known as Jackie Robinson Day. Less known is Robinson's active membership in the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People), his commitment to the Civil Rights movement, and his role in the development of 100 Black Men.
One-Hundred Black Men began in 1963 began as a concept to organize African American men to explore ways to improve conditions in Black communities. The national organization, The 100 Black Men of America, Inc. was established on October 2, 1986. The organization's objectives are focused on mentorship, leadership development, education, health and wellness, and economic empowerment.
Join JES Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Parris Baker and Marcus Atkinson, President of the Erie Chapter of 100 Black Men, as they discuss the history of 100 Black, its relevance in light of recent attempts to eradicate significant historic gains of the Civil Rights movement, and the role of the local chapter in addressing community challenges in the African American communities.
*Community Conversation (Free)
*If purchasing a lunch, please register 48 hours in advance. Thank you! Vegetarian option available.
Location: Jefferson Educational Society - 3207 State St, Erie, PA 16508
Date/Time: Friday, April 11, 12pm to 1:30pm
Admission: Free; Lunch optional, $5/person (Vegetarian option available)
*If you do NOT receive a letter from gerlock@jeserie.org within 24-48 hours regarding your registration, please check your spam or junk folder. Thank you!