Living Black History Every Day: The Legacy of My Grandfather and Father

Recently, my mother has been passing down pieces of family history—old photographs, transcripts from my grandfather’s time at Meharry Medical College, and even receipts from his days in medical school. These artifacts are more than just paper; they are tangible proof that I am a living part of Black history. As Black History Month comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the immense legacy of my family and how their everyday actions shaped my path.?

I have often shared that my father was among the first Black students at Virginia Military Institute Class of ’72. My grandfather graduated from Johnson C. Smith University in 1948 before earning his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in 1953. Though historic in hindsight, these milestones were not seen as such at the time. My grandfather wasn’t thinking about making history—he was trying to make it through medical school. My father wasn’t setting out to break barriers—he wanted to attend college and make his mother proud. In the past, I have written about how this history inspires me today.?

Link to "I, TOO, AM Black History" Article in Fourth Estate

That is the profound lesson I take from their journeys: most people who make history don’t realize they’re doing so. They do their best with what they have, striving for a better future for themselves and their families.?

This realization has reshaped how I view my journey. As a father, a higher education professional, and a PhD student, I remind myself that impact is not always measured in grand gestures or historical accolades. It is found in everyday moments—mentoring students, supporting colleagues and contributing to the community in ways that may seem small but are, in fact, deeply meaningful.?

Looking at my grandfather’s transcripts, I don’t see straight A’s; I see perseverance. He also did not get straight As, he has Cs and Bs, showing me that everyone struggles but regardless of the challenges we overcome them. When I talk to my father about his college experience, I hear a young man's determination to navigate a world that wasn’t always welcoming. Their stories remind me that success is not about perfection but persistence.?

The same is true for all of us. Whether we excel in our careers, pursue education, or be present for those around us, we shape history. Black history is not just about figures with statues or buildings named after them—it is made by everyday people doing everyday things with extraordinary resilience.?

So, as we close Black History Month, I encourage you to take a moment to connect with your own family's history. Ask your parents or grandparents about their dreams, struggles, and triumphs. You may be surprised to realize how much history is woven into your story.?

To those in the Black diaspora: understand that you, too, are part of Black history. Your efforts, perseverance, and excellence all contribute to a legacy that is still being written. Keep striving, keep pushing forward, and know that you are making an impact even in the smallest of actions.?

#BlackHistoryEveryDay #Legacy #Perseverance #BlackExcellence?