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Community & Equity
Recognizing Racism, Seeking Reconciliation
On Wednesday, February 28, the School concluded recognition of Black History Month by welcoming a guest musical performance and words from a man whose moment on the medal stand made history.
George Kilby, Jr., and Phil Wiggins opened the event with their performance of "Racism, Reconciliation, and the Blues," and Dr. Tommie Smith followed with reflections on the power and lingering influence of his silent gesture at the 1968 Olympic Games.
Kilby and Wiggins are renowned musicians who were able to trace the roots of blues to slavery and explore American history from their uniquely Southern perspective. The program examined music, racism, and their personal experiences growing up in Alabama during the Civil Rights Movement. Their pride in their Southern heritage and its rich creative culture was celebrated on stage, and the students were deeply moved by their profound stories and musical expertise. They finished the performance reminding students to make a difference in the world and to build bridges between different races, political beliefs, and cultural values.
Kilby and Wiggins are renowned musicians who were able to trace the roots of blues to slavery and explore American history from their uniquely Southern perspective. The program examined music, racism, and their personal experiences growing up in Alabama during the Civil Rights Movement. Their pride in their Southern heritage and its rich creative culture was celebrated on stage, and the students were deeply moved by their profound stories and musical expertise. They finished the performance reminding students to make a difference in the world and to build bridges between different races, political beliefs, and cultural values.
Dr. Tommie Smith offered his thoughtful words on the meaning of his silent gesture at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City. He presented on his life and the lasting legacy of his historic race and silent protest on the medal stand. Fifty years ago, the Olympic Games in Mexico City were held against the backdrop of a violent and turbulent world of political, racial, and global conflict.
The performance and talk are available on the EHS LocalLive channel.
Social studies teacher Mike Reynolds, who offered the introduction and historical context to Smith’s speech, remarked that, “For me, he had always been the man in the picture demanding that the world recognize humanitarian rights with a raised fist in 1968. I think I imagined him as angry, calling America to account for not living up to its promises. Getting the chance to talk with him and watching him engage our students, it was clear that his silent gesture at the Mexico City Olympics was rooted in a deep love of people, not anger. His visit allowed everyone on campus, faculty and students, the opportunity to reflect on the reality that there is no American history without Black history and to think critically about our place in the polarized world we live in 50 years after Dr. Smith's iconic moment.”
English teacher Louis Smith, who moderated the question and answer session, said, “The fact that he stuck around for almost an hour after he spoke so that he could take a picture with anyone who wanted to meet him or sign an autograph for anyone who wanted it spoke volumes about his generosity and genuine love for people. In keeping with what Mr. Reynolds said, when I see or think of that image from the podium in '68, I usually think of a line from the 1994 song 'Dream Team' by Spearhead. It talks about the irony of having black athletes represent a racist society and at one point says:
Well after doin' that, we be headin' for the ceremony.
Hand on the heart is a bunch of baloney.
The spirit of the '68 olympics--
Black power, people! Can I get a witness?!
"But Tommie Smith made it clear he wasn't even trying to rile people up. He was just trying to do what he thought would speak for his greater love of humanity. I will also say that his humility and self-effacing humor were striking. He is a pretty amazing guy and had no ego at all.”
Students were also impressed by the experience.
“Tommie Smith embodies courage and hard work with extraordinary humility and kindness," said Eloise York ‘18. "It was a privilege to listen to a man who fearlessly protested societal norms, and made me feel like I, too, have the power to spark change.”
James Dixon '19 said, “I thought it was enlightening to listen to Dr. Smith. His words helped to not only shed light on events during the Civil Rights Era but actions that have taken place today.”
Dr. Smith also met with the track team on Tuesday afternoon to offer his words of advice and to talk about leadership and how to push through pain.
"Episcopal looks forward to continued dialogues regarding the values put forth by Dr. Smith and by Phil Wiggins and George Kilby, Jr.," noted Joel Sohn, co-director for the Office of Equity & Inclusion at EHS. "The School’s dedication to fostering cultural awareness and moral courage was truly exemplified during this event."
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