African American Read-In celebrates literacy, history
AARI Readers Selvin Cobb, Marvin Henderson, Ian Wright, Karwynn Paul, Ronald Joe, II, Rocky Hanna, Eric Friall, Ronald M. Joe, Sr., Walter Kelly, Juan Collins and Rev. Robert Butler, pose with Sealey principal Demetria Clemons (seated).
Special to the Outlook
The African American Read-In (AARI), sponsored nationally by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and the NCTE celebrated 28 years of existence and Sealey Elementary joined in the celebration. AARI is also endorsed by the International Reading Association (IRA) in its goal that sees literacy education as a process of teaching students to read, to write and to think critically. Members of the Tallahassee Area Chapter of 100 Black Men of America, Inc. (100 BMOT) helped students at Sealey Elementary celebrate literacy with readers all over the world, during this 28th annual AARI. Newly elected president of 100 BMOT, Eric Friall said the chapter is always happy to support education, literacy and the recognition of works done by African American authors and illustrators. The AARI is also a chance for all students to learn about the history of African Americans, which is the history of America. It gives children of color a chance to see “people that look like me” in books and to see literature and writing books as a possible career goal. Said Friall, “We have as our goal the improvement of the quality of life in our communities and the enhancement of educational opportunities. This is just another occasion for us to connect with our young people.” The men were joined by Superintendent Rocky Hanna and Deputy Superintendent Marvin Henderson. Other readers who participated at Sealey were: Attorney Juan Collins, Col. (Ret.) Ronald M. Joe, Sr., Karwynn Paul (principal Riley Elementary), Selvin Cobb, Ronald M. Joe, II, Rev. Robert Butler, Attorney Walter Kelly and Ian Wright. They read books written and or illustrated by African Americans including, Patricia McKissack, John Steptoe, Jerry Pinkney, Angela Medearis, Andrea and Brian Pinkney, Floyd Cooper, Tiki and Ronde Barber, and Angela Johnson. The 100 Black Men mentors in schools throughout the Big Bend Area and operate a Saturday Success Academy as well as a Summer Success Academy for youth. For more info about 100 Black Men of The Tallahassee Area, Inc., a 501c3 organization, visit the website www.100bmt.com.
