The Final Call | National News

Black males Celebrate 2015 Graduations

By FinalCall.com News | Last updated: Jun 12, 2015 - 1:52:06 PM

What's your opinion on this article?

Elementary, high school and college graduates honored for accomplishments

CHICAGO - Over 200 young Black male graduates from across Chicago and the Midwest are expected to participate in the 2nd “Mass Black Male Graduation and Transition to Manhood Ceremony” featuring nationally acclaimed Attorney James Montgomery and Hip-Hop Artist Jasiri X as keynote speakers.

Jasiri X

The ceremony will begin with 50 local Black elders from business, law, media, government, medicine, education and religion leading elementary school, high school and college graduates into the auditorium to the sound of African drums.

This event is sponsored by The Black Star Project, the Woodlawn Community Development Corporation and Metropolitan Apostolic Church. The event will take place at Metropolitan Apostolic Community Church, located at 4100 South King Drive in Chicago, Illinois on Saturday, June 20, 2015 between 10:30 am and 12:30 pm.

This ceremony is designed to honor the graduates for their academic accomplishments and to show them what is possible with hard work and perseverance. After the ceremony, these graduates will have the opportunity to network and dialogue with distinguished and successful elders, as well as other leaders in the community.

Phillip Jackson, Executive Director of The Black Star Project.

Phillip Jackson, Executive Director of The Black Star Project, says, “Last time, our keynote speaker, Hip Hop Artist Lupe Fiasco, gave each of the graduates $100.00 to honor their accomplishments. While there is no guarantee that that will happen again, good things happen for those who show up in life!”

Young men will wear their cap and gown from their home elementary, high school or college and they will focus on creating a life plan, building their communities and becoming good role models for younger Black boys. One thousand family members, friends and supporters of education are expected to attend this historic occasion.

If you know of a young Black elementary, high school or college graduate who wants to participate in this once in a life-time ceremony, please call 773-285-9600 or email [email protected] so that they can accept their place among the distinguished graduates.