The Black Student Union will host “Kevin Powell: Barack Obama, Dr. King and The Future of Civil Rights” Wednesday, Feb. 25, at 7:30 p.m. in the Student Union Auditorium.
Powell
“We chose him to speak because he is a legend in the black community and an award-wining author,” Fulford said. “His background of political activism and hip-hop culture will be relatable to many students.”
Despite childhood circumstances of poverty and neighborhood violence, Powell went on to study at Rutgers University and has become one of the most respected writers and voices of his generation. Powell is the author or editor of 11 books, including The Education of Kevin Powell: A Boy’s Journey Into Manhood and Barack Obama, Ronald Reagan and The Ghost of Dr. King: Blogs and Essays.
An acclaimed community activist and motivational speaker, he has worked on a range of public concerns, including voter registration, Hurricane Katrina relief, education, the environment, eradicating poverty, and supply and resource support for post-earthquake Haiti.
“Everyone should come and hear Powell speak,” said David Young, director of the UT Office of Excellence. “While he is of African-American descent, he really is an activist for everyone.”
The free, public event is part of UT’s celebration of Black History Month.
