Rialto, CA — In a heartfelt effort to enrich the educational experiences of students and community members alike, Dakira Williams, candidate for Rialto Unified School District Board of Education, Trustee Area 1, hosted a community gathering focused on promoting literacy through oral history and primary source artifacts. The event took place in Rialto, drawing a diverse group of attendees eager to engage with history in a unique and powerful way.
The highlight of the evening was an inspiring lecture by Dr. Joyce Ladner, former President of Howard University and a distinguished member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). Dr. Ladner shared her personal experiences as a young advocate during the 1963 March on Washington, providing attendees with an intimate glimpse into one of the most pivotal moments in the Civil Rights Movement. Her story, as depicted in the recent film *Rustin*, captivated the audience, bringing history to life in a manner that resonated deeply with all who attended.
The movie *Rustin*, which premiered at the Telluride Film Festival on August 31, 2023, and later screened at the Toronto International Film Festival, tells the true story of Bayard Rustin, a key organizer of the March on Washington and a close collaborator with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Ladner’s involvement in this historic event, as portrayed in the film, added a rich layer of context and authenticity to her lecture.
In addition to Dr. Ladner’s compelling presentation, the event featured a mini workshop facilitated by Hardy Brown II, Executive Director of Footsteps to Freedom. Brown’s workshop focused on the use of primary source artifacts and documents from the Civil Rights era, offering attendees a hands-on experience that further deepened their understanding of the historical context surrounding the March on Washington.
“Understanding our history through the words and experiences of those who lived it is crucial to fostering a deeper connection to our past,” said Dakira Williams. “This event was about more than just learning facts; it was about engaging with history in a way that sparks curiosity, encourages critical thinking, and promotes literacy in our community. I’m honored to have had the opportunity to host such an enriching experience for the people of Rialto.”
Williams, an advocate for quality education and community engagement, has made it her mission to bring unique and impactful learning opportunities to the residents of Rialto. This community gathering is part of her broader campaign to enhance educational outcomes in the Rialto Unified School District, with a particular focus on literacy, numeracy, and post-secondary and career education.
The event also served as a platform to encourage community members to take an active role in their education by exploring primary sources and oral histories. Attendees left with a greater appreciation for the power of storytelling and the importance of preserving and learning from the past.
As the evening concluded, Williams expressed her gratitude to Dr. Ladner, Hardy Brown II, and all who attended. “Tonight was a reminder of the strength and resilience of our community,” Williams said. “Together, we can ensure that our children not only learn about history but also draw inspiration from it to shape a brighter future.”
For more information about Dakira Williams and her campaign, please email her at dakirarwilliams@gmail.com
