Madison921web

Keepers of the Legacy
Beverly Luckett
Canton High students Dwayne Nelson and Marquicia
Douglas say they are excited to be “Keepers of the Legacy.”
That is the theme of their inaugural group. They participated
in the pilot program “A Virtual Healing Café - A Seat at
the Table.”
“We all have a voice, and we all need to do our part to
positively impact our community. You might not be able to
give a million dollars, but you can help pick up trash and
clean up your surroundings, you can go vote, there are so
many ways you can be a positive influence in your community
and in the world,” said Dwayne Nelson.
The 12-week pilot program, administered by the Medgar
and Myrlie Evers Institute was sponsored by the Kellogg
Foundation, the Atlanta Braves, and the Mississippi Braves.
Mrs. Reena Evers-Everette, Medgar and Myrlie Evers’
daughter, along with Mrs. Corinne Anderson, lead sessions
to inspire and encourage our future leaders.
“The program provides skills training and support services
for addressing community trauma aligned with concepts of
building resilience, socio-emotional, and social justice
awareness,” said Reena Evers-Everette.
CHS scholars like Marquicia Douglas praised the program
for giving young people a voice and encouraging them
to be leaders in their community. “Your voice is needed, not
just government officials and politicians, but you can speak
up and effect change in your community and in the world,”
said Douglas.
Students say during the virtual sessions they were able to
learn more about the important impact Medgar and Myrlie
Evers had on civil rights in Mississippi and in the nation.
They say they were also empowered and inspired to be
“Keepers of the Legacy” by committing themselves to always
look for opportunities to be involved and to be agents of
change. Students didn’t just talk; they took action by rolling
up their sleeves and completing various community service
projects. One project included donating canned foods to
Our Daily Bread Ministries in Canton. Officials there were
elated to receive the items. They say their pantry was almost
depleted and encouraged students to continue giving back
and inspiring others to give to those in need.
The pilot program made such an impact on students that
it was extended from its original plan of six weeks to twelve
weeks. Thanks to a grant from the Mississippi and Atlanta
Braves, students were awarded certificates and up to $150 for
each 6-week session. They also received MS Braves game tickets,
books, and other gifts for their outstanding participation.
Superintendent Gary Hannah and the Canton Public
School District Board of Trustees praised the students and
the program for its outstanding work by honoring them at
its June board meeting.
CHS scholars say they were truly enriched by participating
in this program. Now they’re on a mission to use their voice
to be leaders in their community and work for positive
changes in their state, nation, and the world.
Hometown MADISON • 47