Cambridge Celebrates Black History Month

The City of Cambridge Employees' Committee on Diversity, City Manager’s Office and Mayor David P. Maher invite you to an evening of conversation in honor of Black History Month Thursday, Feb. 26, from 6-8 p.m., at Cambridge Public Library, 449 Broadway. The evening will feature a moderated panel discussion, Black College Athletes: Education, Myths, and Reality. Light refreshments will be served. This program is free and open to the public. 
**Free Parking in Library Garage for Attendees

While their talents are responsible for generating millions of dollars for their colleges and universities, black college athletes often go through college with different academic expectations. Recent scandals involving universities demonstrated this issue when athletes were offered “paperless” classes that did not require class attendance or course work and resulted in passing grades. This discussion will examine athlete’s perception of college athletics along with the reality of athletes having little to fall back on when dreams of making it to the professional league of their sports are not realized.

The panelists include: Paul Francisco, former player for the New England Patriots and Vice President, Global Inclusion at State Street Bank; Derrick Jackson, Columnist for The Boston Globe; Robyne Johnson, Director of Track and Field and Cross Country, Boston University; and Jamalh Prince, Dean of Students, Cambridge Rindge and Latin School (CRLS). Lewis Bryant, Director of Multicultural Services at Buckingham Browne and Nichols School in Cambridge, will moderate.

These panelists will share their own experiences and knowledge around these issues, and offer wisdom and insight on ways of moving forward, ensuring a stimulating and engaging evening.

Also check out the series of Black History events at Cambridge Public Library