Celebrating Black History Month offers us an important opportunity to recognize the many achievements and contributions that African Americans have made. It’s a time to honor African American leaders who had the courage to challenge inequities, strive for excellence under any circumstance, and blaze a trail for generations to come. In this article series, throughout February, we hope to educate, engage, and empower our community by learning more about the Black experience in America.
Bronx native Tyler Johnson ’22, a Humanities and Justice major, couldn’t be prouder of her African American heritage and the Civil Rights leaders whose footsteps she aims to follow. “Black people have been creators, innovators, and liberators,” she says. “We have been the blueprint for progress in America, helping to shape the political, cultural, and economic landscape of this country.” Johnson sat down with us to reflect on how African Americans continue to contribute to the success and progress of our nation.
“Black people have been creators, innovators, and liberators. We have been the blueprint for progress in America.” —Tyler Johnson
February is Black History Month. What does it mean to you to celebrate the many achievements generations of African Americans have accomplished?
Simply being Black is a celebration within itself, but it is important to commemorate the generations prior to us because they’ve broken barriers and changed history for us, just as we will do for future generations. As a community, we have fought fiercely and bravely against so many odds. We have to recognize and reckon with the blood, sweat, and tears that have created our culture and existence.
What African American leaders have made the biggest impact on you?
I was blessed to have parents who know their history and culture, and share it with me. My mother would tell me stories about her protesting days, while my father told me about walking the famous “Million Man March” in Washington. I remember vividly when my parents made me watch Alex Haley’s Roots when I was in the eighth grade. It changed me. I started to notice the disparities and injustices in our society on a deeper level. I have them to thank for my fighting spirit. They ignited a spark in me.
“I was blessed to have parents who know their history and culture, and share it with me. My mother would tell me stories about her protesting days, while my father told me about walking the famous ‘Million Man March’ in Washington.” —Tyler Johnson
What hopes do you have for the African American community?
One of my many aspirations for the African American community is the revival of Black Wall Street, which runs deeper than the suit and ties. The revival of Black Wall Street would help enhance and increase the success of current and future Black-owned businesses, as well as put the money back into Black communities. To fully invest in our community and business, we must have economical backing.
What do you want people who are not African American, or Black, to understand about African American History?
I think there is a misconception that African American history is all trauma-based and violent, but our ancestors created a culture from scratch. From cuisines to fashion, literature to sciences, African American history is rich and beautiful. African American history tells the story of a community that has survived against all odds. I have never seen a community escape genocide from all aspects, to then create survival tactics that involve the earth, mind, body, and soul as a means of existing.
“I think there is a misconception that African American history is all trauma-based and violent, but our ancestors created a culture from scratch.” —Tyler Johnson
If everything goes according to plan, where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself having already graduated Fordham Law School and practicing either criminal or civil law. I also foresee myself traveling, experiencing different histories and different cultures. I have always been a learner; I love school and learning new things. Rwanda has always been a place of interest for me. I’m hoping to have a little vacation home there, while also helping in peace efforts and environmental infrastructure.
