As I reached out to introduce myself to Dr. Robert Parris Moses Jr. on June 2, I realized there was something more to our traditional greeting. Dr. Moses’ eyes said more than, “Pleased to meet you.” He grasped my hand for what seemed to be just a second or so longer than he had the other individuals I accompanied to hear him speak.
As we made eye contact, I understood his silent gesture toward me.
Even if he did so unintentionally, Dr. Moses’ eyes communicated to me that something in his heart and mind wanted me to comprehend. In the short glance we made toward each other, I felt that he truly hoped that the wisdom he had outlined that afternoon would stick with me; whether it was the history of the United States Constitution and how people used its articles to mask their prejudices and warrant their oppressive behaviors; the confidence, self-respect and self-determination to demand and exercise every right promised to me; or stepping up to the task of defending those citizens I encounter who are deprived of their own rights and educating them of their importance so that they can find the strength to fight for themselves.
As a black male opening the doors of adulthood, I would need each. Read the entire story.