Jackson Free Press

Strength and determination are two words that give meaning to a name, specifically the name Akinwole Uhuru. As a 22-year-old Tougaloo College senior, Uhuru says that every time his name is called, it reminds him of his purpose—a purpose that involves selflessly giving back to his community by focusing on America's struggle with poverty. His goals are to make a difference in the lives of those who are without, while at the same time encouraging those who do have to lend a helping hand.

"Dubois talked about the 'Talented Ten,'" Uhuru says, referring to black intellectual W.E.B. DuBois. "He talked about being able to have privilege and give to others that don't. I think the one thing we need to figure out is what can those of us who do have, try to do to give to the ones that don't have," Uhuru explains.

As a native of Gary, Ind., Uhuru decided to attend college in Jackson, first Jackson State University and then Tougaloo College. His desire was to become a black history teacher until he turned down an unexpected path. He explains, "I was chasing a young lady who introduced me to her mother. Her mother asked me 25 questions about European history, and I got 24 of them right. She then asked me 25 questions about African history. I only got three right. Her question to me was, 'How can you teach Black History if you don't know anything yourself?'"

Uhuru then decided to learn more about his history and himself—and use that knowledge to help others. Too many people, he says, do not know where their next meal is coming from. "The average person can have problems trying to pay their bills, but when you don't have anything to eat and your survival is at its most dire, it really boils down to living off of someone else's goodwill," he says.

Uhuru says it takes a strong voice and a bit of exposure to enlighten others about the plight of the less fortunate. Therefore, Uhuru ran for the position of Mr. Tougaloo and won the title. Uhuru uses his position as a way to speak with his peers and to act as an example of what it means to give back to your community. He believes that sitting down and talking with people is a very effective method of building relationships and assessing their needs.

As a young man with a strong mind and spirit and an open heart for the people, Akinwole Uhuru has a voice, and he is determined to be heard.

Previous Comments

ID

82372

Comment

excellent piece. can we get his email address? I would like to discuss some issues with him. --john sawyer

Author

John Sawyer

Date

2005-03-24T18:25:34-06:00

ID

82373

Comment

John, we'll get it to you in e-mail. It does sound like the two of you might have a lot to discuss. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-03-24T18:27:11-06:00

ID

82374

Comment

Thanks Mr. Butler for such and excellent piece! I am so proud of this brother!! His words and positive outlook for our community is so very up lifting!!!

Author

vern

Date

2005-03-29T16:07:20-06:00