On Monday, Feb. 26, Rev. Dr. Starski Wilson joined as a keynote speaker for the annual Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) conference at Webster University. Wilson is an American activist and the president of the Children’s Defense Fund. He is a famous advocate for children’s rights and racial equity.
According to Vincent C. Flewellen, the Associate Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), the theme of the conference was “navigating an unclear path together.”
“I stand in the context where a mobilization of thousands of citizens in this community over the course of a year catalyzed and topped off the largest globalization for civil rights and social justice in America since the Montgomery bus boycott,” Wilson said. “I stand in this because I believe there is something about the brilliance of the blackness that shows up on campuses across the nation.”
By the end of Wilson’s speech, the audience engaged in crucial discussions led by local, regional and national experts. They provided insight into how the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on Affirmative Action impacts various businesses, corporate spaces, philanthropic organizations, donors and educational institutions.
Wilson’s keynote speech addressed the challenges that schools and universities face in efforts to consider banning Black history education. He acknowledged the importance of preserving Black history and expressed his commitment to creating a space where having these conversations can lead to changing our society.
“We have come to understand parents’ rights as an appropriate placeholder and appropriate voice in public conversations, especially ones related to education for children,” Wilson said.
Wilson mentioned his belief in the importance of understanding that children must be protected. This is why he named his non-profit organization “The Children’s Defense Fund.”
The organization aims to help every child experience the wonders of youth and give them the option to speak without judgment. Wilson acknowledges how parents also play a role in a child’s youth because they are responsible for ensuring their child gets the education they deserve.
This intersectionality within a larger movement of diversity, equity and inclusion is what Wilson prioritized. The DEI conference at Webster University centered around the importance of including people and giving everyone a voice. Speakers at the conference acknowledged the struggles that Black people face every day.
Wilson addresses the necessity to consider the harsh reality of police brutality within activism for equality. He aims to encourage everyone to start meaningful conversations about Black education, create a personal movement, and protect the basic human rights of every child while they are receiving an education.
Share this post
