The Talented Tenth theme is taken from the beliefs and teachings of famed black educator and author W.E.B. DuBois. In 1903 Mr. DuBois emphasized the necessity for higher education to develop the leadership capacity among the most able 10 percent of American Negroes. DuBois believed in a higher education of a “Talented Tenth” who through their knowledge of modern culture could guide the American Negro into a higher civilization. Each year a select group of individuals who exemplify the qualities of the “Talented Tenth” is chosen and recognized for their contributions in Education, the Arts, Health Services, the Media, Science, Religion, Research and other professions. The following three individuals will be recognized for their contributions to Education, and Media Communications.Mary Bass: A lifelong resident of the Central District and the second generation of a family dedicated to improving Seattle’s schools, Ms Bass, volunteers as a tutor at her alma mater, Garfield High School. This experience has renewed her commitment to supporting neighborhood schools and helping to remove the hurdles that create disproportional outcomes among the District’s diverse student population. Ms Bass draws on her background in public policy, economics and budgeting in addressing technical questions and financial issues facing the Board. She is currently a Program Analyst with the King County Department of Transporatation.Charmell Slaughter: As Outreach Coordinator for the TechREACH program, Ms Slaughter strives to increase middle school girls’ interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics through mentoring, hands-on high quality curriculum, and real world projects. The mission of TechREACH is to create a supportive, diverse educational community focused on girl’s needs through partnerships with parents, schools, communities, business and higher education. The program targets low-income, at-risk middle school girls – the group most likely to fall behind in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics areas.Christopher H. Bennett: Well known in Seattle and throughout the nation for his endeavors and achievement in Journalism, Mr. Bennett had a vision and launched his publishing company in January 1970. His purpose was to establish a Voice in the African American community and other communities of color. The corporation has expanded to four newspapers –The Seattle Medium, Seattle Metro Homemaker, Tacoma True Citizen and the Portland Medium – and four radio stations – 1420 AM KRIZ, 1560 AM KZIZ, 1620 AM KYZI, and 1480 AM KBMA (Portland). Mr. Bennett, often described as a Pillar of the African American Community, often reminds his radio listeners that he does not need anyone’s authority to advocate for the African American Community, especially where the children are concerned. For further information, please contact Michee Holland at 206-851-0546.
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L.A. Firestorms Destroy A Historic Black Community
The Eaton wildfire in Los Angeles has resulted in at least 10 fatalities, the destruction of thousands of homes, and the displacement of 180,000 residents, with a significant impact on the Black community in Altadena, where many Black homeowners had established generational wealth.
