Graduation Speech: Savannah Barnes

Good morning, and welcome, Class of 2025. We welcome proud parents, friends, Mr. Kneller, Mr. Zielinski, Ms. Ruiz, and other faculty members. Today, we gather to celebrate not just our achievements but also the challenges that lie ahead of us. As we graduate and go out into the world, it's important to look at the world around us and reflect. One important issue that demands our attention is the recent removal of significant items representing Black culture from museums. This decision threatens to erase history and heritage that shape our society.

The impact of this decision reaches far beyond the walls of those museums. By diminishing the visibility of Black culture, we risk perpetuating a narrative that ignores the contributions and struggles of an entire race. This isn't just about artifacts, it’s about identity, representation, and the stories that need to be told; stories that we have not yet learned in school. As we take a deeper look at the future, we as a generation must recognize that the erasure of the Black culture can lead to a generation disconnected from their roots.

As a black Caribbean female, born and raised in America, I have encountered numerous times where I had to defend my culture. By providing facts to certain people, I was able to teach others about the Black culture. However, with the recent removal of the artifacts, many have forgotten who they are. There are many facts I had to learn about the Black culture history that I didn't get to learn in school or a museum because of it being too graphic. It pains me to see right before my eyes erosion of my culture.

In good news, technology has given us tools that can raise our voices and spread awareness. Social media allows us to share stories and connect with people around the world. We can use social media platforms to our advantage to advocate for the Black culture. We can create movements, raise awareness, and foster understanding through the click of a button. Moreover, we must understand that technology is not just a tool; it's a responsibility. With great power comes great responsibility. Let us use our platforms to educate others and stand up for what is right. By doing so, we can create a future where every voice is heard.

In conclusion, as we celebrate our achievements today, let us not forget the responsibilities that come with our education. We have the tools, the knowledge, and the passion to make a difference and use our voices. I urge the Class of 2025 to go out and take action, to speak up, and to use your technology skills to help the world around us. Together, we can make a difference and make sure every voice is heard. Let us be the change-makers, the storytellers, and the advocates for a world where every culture is celebrated. Thank you, and congratulations to the Class of 2025!