Students join conference with Rev Jesse Jackson

At the end of last term, our Head of English and six Year 10 students joined a Zoom conference with American Civil Rights leader and campaigner Reverend Jesse Jackson.

In their English classes, the Year 10s had been discussing the speeches of Jesse Jackson and when the opportunity arose to join a virtual event with the iconic 20^th Century figure, some of our students jumped at the chance to purchase tickets.

Jesse Jackson was by Martin Luther King's side in the civil rights marches and near him on the balcony when he was shot. The girls were so positive about the experience afterwards and Mr Gifford, Head of English commended them for making the most of such an opportunity.

“I had suggested to them that there might be an opportunity for Q&A afterwards and they should get questions in, and put their ages,” Mr Gifford explained. “I was of course thrilled that several of the girls were in fact chosen, and had their questions asked directly to Jesse Jackson, and their ages noted. The questions were so impressive and well-informed with current events, and this was noted by the host and Rev Jackson: Daisy D, Millie B and Zoe P.”

Chloe D and Isabella P also attended, and took part with their parents.

Mr Gifford selected some of the memorable lines from the conference:

• The hands that picked cotton now pick the president   
• He told the Pipers girls to "keep hope alive and always sit next to the minorities in the lunchroom"   
• Education breaks chains   
• How his father in WW2 couldn't vote   
• His sympathy for poor white farmers     
• A discussion with Zoe P of the execution of black men   
• Kamala Harris   
• How he has had the courage to risk his life     
• The importance of physical courage
• …and many other things.

Link to video.