In 1925, Langston Hughes published the poem “I, Too, Sing America,” eloquently putting into words the yearning for equality by many people who are black. While many things have changed, inequalities abound. For black and brown communities the realities of these inequalities must be juxtaposed with the strength, beauty, and brilliance of their culture. How does one navigate such a society? How does one instill hope for brighter tomorrows and claim their place in America?
Join Rev. Dr. TLC as she talks with Councilman Kevin Booker and Schercitha Miller, his mother, as they share the joys, complexities, and sometimes painful experiences of living in America. Their strong family legacy of social justice is the bedrock for their commitment to serve, uplift, and empower all people, in general, but Black Indigenous People of Color, in particular. You don’t want to miss this dynamic mother-son duo as they share their personal and professional experiences with dismantling racism.
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Segment 1
Terrlyn starts the show with a spiritual breathing exercise. She goes on to break down the meaning of the title of the episode, I, Too, Sing in America. Terrlyn talks about seeing her guest, Councilman Kevin Booker Jr. at a Black Lives Matter rally and hearing him recite the poem of the same name. She shared how his words uplifted the people who wanted to know how to dismantle racism. Terrlyn introduced her guest Councilman Booker Jr and his mother, recurring guest, Schercitha Miller.
Segment 2
After the break, Councilman Booker Jr. shared more on what grounds him. He talks about engaging in yoga and becoming a certified instructor over a three month journey with other people of color. Mrs. Miller shared her experience with raising black children and how she felt responsible to prepare them to be educated and independent. Councilman Booker Jr. added an example of how his mother taught him to take the city bus alone to school by age six. He talked about growing up with a strict mother and how it shaped him as a man.
Segment 3
After the break, Terrlyn talks a little about Councilman Booker Jr.’s biography. She mentioned how he knew from a young age he wanted to commit his life to social justice. Councilman Booker Jr. shares where his motivation derived from and what experiences in middle school helped shape him into the man he is today. Mrs. Miller adds how she gives back and how she instilled those values in her children.
Segment 4
After the break, Councilman Booker Jr. discusses the sacrifices he’s made committing his life to social justice. He shares how he’s sacrificed financial opportunities and having a family because he is dedicated to make sure he can uplift and inform his community. At the end of the segment, Terrlyn and Councilman Booker Jr. talk about tools that can help create more awareness for local government around our youth in these racial tension times. Councilman Booker Jr. recites I, Too, Sing in America poem before ending the segment.