Abstract
In the book Young, Black, and Gifted, Perry, Steele, and Hilliard (2003) explore the affinity that Blacks possessed for education. In particular, they examined Frederick Douglass’s efforts to become literate while enslaved, because he realized that education was equated with liberation and empowerment. They also focused on Malcolm X’s quest for education, which led him to proclaim that “education is the passport to your future.” Similarly, they also delineated how an affinity for education was a catalyst for helping Ben Carson become the director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital. Interestingly, in his autobiography, Gifted Hands, Carson explained that as a young boy he initially lacked interest in education, which led to subpar achievement outcomes in school (Carson & Murphy, 1996). This attitude changed when his mother insisted that he and his brother limit their television time and spend time in the library reading at least one book a week. The change manifested in improved academic outcomes in school, which led him to develop a greater appreciation for education.
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© 2016 Brian L. McGowan, Robert T. Palmer, J. Luke Wood and David F. Hibbler, Jr.
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McGowan, B.L., Palmer, R.T., Wood, J.L., Hibbler, D.F. (2016). Reframing Black Male Success in Education: Narratives of Resiliency, Inspiration, and Success. In: McGowan, B.L., Palmer, R.T., Wood, J.L., Hibbler, D.F. (eds) Black Men in the Academy. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137567284_1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137567284_1
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