The excitement experienced by more than 1,000 in Minneapolis at our "TFI/Believe to Achieve" conference, November 3 - 5, was remarkable. So the next step is that the TFI/Believe to Achieve conference comes to Birmingham. We have been fueled, and strengthened by dynamic speakers, thinkers and advocates for schoolchildren and youth. Each standing ovation recognized the collective leadership and the common ground we all travel for purposes of social justice and a new civil rights movement which educators must support.
We need you! We need your hearts to beat together in the cadence of shared humanity and your hands to work together in the spirit of shared democracy and your voices to lead together so that, never -- no never -- will any child, any woman, or any man be left behind again. The opportunity is here, in our midst and within our grasp, and our focus must remain sharp and clear. With sustained leadership, your leadership, we think globally and act locally, we will accomplish all that has been dreamed. Together we will accomplish that and ever so much more."
-- Eric J. Cooper
Brother Eric, thank you. I marvel at the potential of NUA. It is unique. All of that is due to a unique collection of talent ... but most of all, because of your unique ability to bring all of that together and to articulate a mission and a vision with uncommon energy. There is no competitor on the horizon that I know about, to overcome the malevolence of the forces of destruction. On, mighty power ranger!!! I really enjoyed the conference, and hanging out. Stay strong, as I know that you will.
Your brother
Dr. Asa Hilliard III., Georgia State University
The exciting opening presentation by Eric Cooper and the presentation by Dr. Kozol were exceptional, inspiring, sobering, and optimistic to say the least.
The other presenters including Yvette Jackson, Alfred Tatum, and Linda Darling-Hammond provided many tools to help our teachers provide culturally responsive teaching.
After listening to people like Linda Hammond; Yvette Jackson, and others, staff development is needed as much as our students need cultural relevant and skilled teaching. Every time we invite someone to have courageous conversations our teachers conclude by asking for examples of classroom practices. This is where we could help. |
I was deeply inspired by your introduction to Jonathan Kozol, his talk and the general tone and enthusiasm generated during the conference. It took me back to some fundamentals that have driven my work from the beginning. Unfortunately, sometimes I feel a bit distant from the core issues that make our work worthwhile. Thanks for not losing your way and keeping the rest of us focused.
Dorothy Strickland
Rutgers University
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