HBCU Graduates Celebrated by Former President Barack Obama with #SHOWMEYOURWALK

With the coronavirus suspending graduations, colleges and universities around the world have crafted new ways to celebrate the milestone with one of the most anticipated events held today for HBCU graduates, featuring a virtual commencement speech from former President Barack Obama during which he said the Trump administration isn’t even “pretending to be in charge” of the pandemic.

The nation’s 44^th President kept most of his remarks inspirational.

“You’ve earned this moment,” Mr. Obama said. “Everybody who supported you along the way is proud of you.”

The program, sponsored by J.P. Morgan Chase’s “Advancing Black Pathways”, also brought the chancellors of the nation’s HBCUs into the spotlight to offer their well wishes. Wiley College’s Dr Herman Felton, Jr. said, “Go forth inspired.” Underscoring the historic nature of the time caused by the global health crisis, Grambling State University’s Dr. Richard Gallot stated, “You have faced challenges like no other generation.” And, Prairie View A & M’s Dr. Ruth Simmons’ described the moment as a “testament to your determination, flexibility, and adaptability.”

Superstar comedian Kevin Hart hosted the two-hour program and introduced the all-star list of participants which included Rapsody, Anthony Hamilton, Wyclef Jean, Vivica Fox, Doug E. Fresh and Omari Hardwick. Entertainer Steve Harvey encouraged grads to “focus on your dreams, vision, and imagination”, cultivate a work ethic, and maintain a strong faith.

There were greetings from prominent HBCU graduates like former presidential candidate, California Senator Kamala Harris and Janice Bryant Howroyd who is the first African American woman to build a billion-dollar company, the ActOne Group.

“No matter how grim something around you is, keep the light inside you,” Howroyd urged. “Go. Live strong. Be strong. And, give back.”

Mr. Obama’s remarks leaned on the uniqueness of the times but with the irony that racial disparities persist, touching on the disproportionate effect of the coronavirus on the African American population and the case of Ahmaud Arbery, a 25-year-old unarmed Black man who was shot and killed by a white father and son in Georgia. While pointing out the societal inequities most Black Americans are familiar with including the graduates, the former commander-in-chief said, “…just like when a black man goes for a jog…and somebody shoots him because he doesn’t answer their questions.”

Known for his moving oratory, the country’s first African American president sought to mobilize the Class of 2020.

“This is your moment. Your generation’s world to shape,” Mr. Obama stated.  “And in taking on this responsibility, I hope you are bold. I hope you have a vision that isn’t clouded by cynicism or fear.”

He acknowledged the disappointment of not having the customary commencement ceremony and the opportunity to “turn up” many Seniors missed when colleges and universities closed in March due to the coronavirus.

“Nobody shines quite like a Senior on the yard during Springtime,” said the father of two daughters, one of whom is home from college and sheltering in place with the former First Family.

But, in his speech which lasted less than 15 minutes, Mr. Obama advised graduates “to ground yourself in actual communities with real people.” He also called for the formation of alliances.

He said, “You can’t do it alone. Meaningful change requires allies in common cause.”

And, Mr. Obama reminded graduates they are now “role models” whether they like or not. “I’m so proud of you,” he said. “And, as you set out to change the world, we’ll be the wind at your backs.”