For MASSPTA

MAN STIFF-ARMS THE NFL, BECOMES GREAT AFRICAN AMERICAN BIBLIOPHILE
As an African American child growing up in the 1940s, Charles Blockson was told by a white teacher that black people had made no contributions to history, reports the Associated Press. Even as a fourth grader, Blockson knew better. So -- as any intrepid youngster would do -- he proved her wrong by accumulating pieces of African American history (like "Up from Slavery" by Booker T. Washington and a biography of George Washington Carver). As Blockson grew older, his searches led to more rarefied shops. He recalls bookstores where he hid volumes he couldn't afford in hopes they would be there when he saved up the money. Today, the Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection at Temple University contains more than 30,000 historical items, some dating all the way back to the 16th century. Scholars are quick to note how lucky they are that Blockson began collecting when he did, as many items he accumulated might not be available now, or, if so, would be prohibitively expensive. It sure turned out to be a great decision turning down the New York football Giants.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id /23305763/

MAKING SURE CHILDREN KNOW THEIR HISTORY
Those who have no knowledge of history miss out on the inspiration that comes from the past, writes Marian Wright Edelman for the Children's Defense Fund. These sentiments echo that of Dr. Carter Woodson, who founded Negro History Week in 1926 to give inspiration to other African Americans. Dr. Woodson saw the week as vital to ensuring everyone knew the great African American achievements because many people, including some African American history professors, couldn't name the myriad of contributions that community had made to history. Wright Edelman writes the list of great African Americans is numerous and children should learn their stories and be given the tools and motivation to emulate their actions. In addition, children should be taught as much as possible about the heroes in their own families. This is so important because family stories often provide the most memorable inspiration of all, as they bring history alive and reinforce the idea that anyone can make a difference. When looking back at historical accomplishments, people must be reminded of how much unfinished business there is and thus be motivated to write the next chapter.
http://www.childrensdefense .org/site/MessageViewer?em_id =7161.0&dlv_id=10021&JServSessi onIdr004=nthwpjj695.app13a