Learn about African American history

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Mass Appeal) - February is Black History Month and Rev. Talbert W. Swan, II of the Spring of Hope Church isn't only celebrating, but he's organizing a lecture series that will bring to light many important issues for everyone this month, regardless of color.  

Lift Every Voice Lecture Series
Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:30PM
Spring of Hope Church
35 Alden Street, Springfield


Tuesday, February 5th
Coqueace "Koco" Powell presents:
Health Matters: Wining the Battle Against Breast Cancer
Coqueace is a fighter. She is a fighter who refuses to give in, even on her toughest days fighting against breast cancer. This Dallas native graduated from Roosevelt High School and later joined the US Navy. She is also the co-founder of Sexy After 30, a foundation whose mission is to uplift those who have had various types of adversity such domestic violence, sexual abuse, teen pregnancy and more.

Tuesday, February 12th
Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu presents:
African American Education: Closing the Racial Academic Achievement Gap
Dr. Kunjufu is an educational consultant with African-American Images. He is constantly on the lecture circuit with over thirty different workshops, addressing students, parents, teachers, and community residents; in pre-schools elementary schools, high-schools: colleges and churches. He is also an award winning author of many landmark books.

Thursday, February 21st
Tim Wise presents:
Race and Politics: White Denial in a Changing America
Tim Wise is among the most prominent anti-racist writers and educators in the United States. Tim has spoken in all 50 states of the U.S., on over 800 college and high school campuses, and to community groups across the nation. He has also lectured internationally in Canada and Bermuda on issues of comparative racism, race and education, racism and religion, and racism in the labor market. Wise is a best-selling author of six books.

Tuesday, February 26th
Kemba Smith-Pradia presents:
Hard Choices: Why Your Next Decision Matters
Kemba graduated high school and continued her education at prestigious Hampton Univeristy. She associated with the wrong crowd and became involved with a drug dealer who was a major figure in a crack cocaine ring. Kemba was sentenced to 24.5 years and served 6.5 years in a federal prison. Fortunately, she regained her freedom after President Clinton granted her clemency in December 2000. Her case drew support from across the nation and the world to reverse a disturbing trend in the rise of lengthy sentences for first time non-violent drug offenders. Her story has been featured on CNN, Nightline, Court TV, The Early Morning Show, Donahue, Judge Hatchett and a host of other television programs. She is a national speaker and advocate for fair sentencing and voting rights.

To learn more visit SpringofHopeChurch.org.