The Continuation of African American History at the High School

Unfinished History 

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As a four-year African-American student at Episcopal High School, hearing about the history of black people on this campus has been discomforting. While some may know of the discomforting sides of our black history, most know nothing. I’m here to provide both, the discomforting and the refreshing continuous history African American students, faculty, and staff provide for this prodigious institution.

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The focus of this exhibit is to not only educate but to bring awareness to the black history that is still happening today on Episcopal High School’s campus. The mission is very simple, get the student body, faculty, and staff to learn about the experiences of black students and faculty on campus. This exhibit starts with a 'Then to Now' comparison of what Episcopal was like five years ago. The first page explains the trials and tribulations of what EHS was like before the controversial social and racial movements of 2020. The exhibit then continues with real-life accounts from some current students and faculty on what their experiences are like living on campus. Also throughout the exhibit, there's a  chronological order of events done by Episcopal following the George Floyd murder in 2020. Starting with the lack of significant response from the administration and Board of Trustees. To the start of an anonymous Instagram page exposing Episcopal for their derogating and racist unsolved issues. Following the exposure leads to a very rigid, well-deserving letter from over 100 black alumni demanding change to be done at Episcopal. Episcopal then, responds with accountability and creates three programs in hopes of making sure all students feel welcomed and appreciated on this campus. The three programs include the founding of the Black Alumni Network, The Task Force on Racism, Understanding and Belonging, and the creation of The Office of Community and Equity. Overall, this project is a well-prepared attempt to continue to educate, promote and build a history that is unfinished.