Bridges Digital Archive: Audio and Video Recordings

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Document Type

Oral History

Publication Date

3-22-2016

Abstract

Danny Tillman discusses how Lois Carson got him involved with Black Future Leaders and how he had already been involved in programs that promoted Black excellence in public schools through mentoring programs when he was in high school. He identifies his parents and upbringing as major influences for his good grades, sense of justice, and involvement in the community. This directly affected his determination to be on the County of San Bernardino City Unified School Board after witnessing unfair treatment of faculty and leading a march on the Board of Education in pursuit of justice. He speaks further about what Black Future Leaders did, including introducing its young members to successful Black professionals. By emphasizing the importance of grades and hard work especially in high school as well as giving the necessary education to succeed, BFL produced Black students predisposed to success. They teach skills such as how to apply to colleges/universities/military academies effectively and give teens leadership roles as part of their formative years. Their goal is not to be a “social program”, but a program “designed to mentor our leaders” within the community. Mr. Tillman also emphasizes community giants who helped him on his way to where he is now within places such as the New Hope Missionary Baptist Church. People he names include Francis Grice, Jean Peacock, Wilbur Brown, Ocie Lockett, John Woods, among many others.

Comments

Interview conducted by Leah Michelle Cash.

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