Alcorn students present at the 83rd annual Association of Social and Behavioral Scientists Conference
Three students from Alcorn State University shared their views on how one of the University’s most notable alumni has affected students’ approach to activism.
Social work majors A’ja Wallace and Laura Cater and history major, Ariel Jordan, presented a paper entitled, “The Philosophy of Medgar Evers: Ramifications of the Past, Present and Future,” at the 83rd annual Spring Conference for the Association of Social and Behavioral Scientists in Bossier City, Louisiana.
The students focused on how their peers can use the life of Medgar Evers as a tool to promote social justice and transformation. The students also discussed voting rights and statistics on voting demographics in the last four years.
A’ja said that it was important for the trio to represent Alcorn by sharing the influence that Evers has on budding leaders.
“I really enjoyed presenting about Medgar Evers at the conference because it allowed us to share how an Alcornite has played a huge role in civil rights and shaping the leadership paths of some of today’s young adults,” said A’ja.
Evers’ social significance has inspired Laura to speak up about societal issues in the future. She encourages her peers to use their voices as well.
“After realizing his impact, it makes me want to be more involved and help people realize how important their voices are,” said Laura. “It’s important for young adults like us to use Evers’ legacy as inspiration to make our voices heard.”
Listening to presentations by other students was the highlight for Ariel. She said one in particular where a student interviewed Mrs. Myrlie Evers about a world without her former husband.
“One of the participants interviewed Evers and it was touching because she went in depth about how she felt the world has changed since Medgar passed away,” said Ariel. “It was very enlightening.”
Dr. Dorothy Idleburg, advisor and chair for the Department of Social Work, praised the students for their outstanding presentation.
“The students did an excellent job presenting their views of Medgar Evers and making the participants more aware of his legacy, lifelong work and the University efforts to keep his vision alive,” said Idleburg.
