What’s up world! In observance of Veteran’s day, there was no episode yesterday(11.11), but we’re back with none other than Black Voices on the Hill Host Daniel James. Daniel is an incredible mind, with an even more incredible spirit. From the moment he stepped foot on Andover’s campus as a Sophomore, he was a light in everything he did. From Gospel Choir to Mock Trial, he was heavily involved. We did our fair share of reminiscing, including the incredible time we had in CRT, but also reflected on the 2016 election. Before any of that though, Daniel took me through his upbringing in South Carolina, in a town of just 6,000. Right before Andover, Daniel was able to attend a predominantly black school for the first time in his life. While he had his fair share of great times and memorizes, he recalls how the black students were governed strictly and limited in their expression. Raised with a heavy focus on education, he was thrilled to go to Andover. However his first few weeks were beyond rough, and he experienced severe homesickness. And of course like all Andover students, he struggled to balance the many things he signed himself for. But he graduated near the top of our class and with a ticket to Cornell. Since being at Cornell, Daniel has pledged a pre-law fraternity and started the Black Voices on the Hill Podcast. True to the name, he interviews and elevates black voices, discussing anything from racism to elitism. He’s interviewed politicians like the Mayor of Ithaca, and hopes to one day pursue a career in elected politics. Our conversation was not only refreshing, but it was great to really sit down and talk to a great friend and mind in Daniel. Listen to Black Voices on The Hill here, and follow them! https://www.wvbr.com/blackvoices Recorded: 11.11.20
