TUSKEGEE, Ala. (October 26, 2009) - Students, faculty, staff and community members packed the Tuskegee University Chapel on Sunday, Oct. 25, for a forum with the Rev. Jesse Jackson. The internationally influential human rights activist addressed credit card debt, staggering student loan interest, lack of self-reliance and other issues concerning college students.
"I am standing here... in a place of leaders of substance, who helped transform this nation. Tuskegee transformed America," Jackson said as he recognized the feats and accomplishments of Dr. Benjamin F. Payton, renowned national academic leader and current president of Tuskegee University; civil rights figure Rosa Parks, who was born in Macon County; the Tuskegee Airmen; scientist George Washington Carver, institution founder Booker T. Washington; and others. "You are not here to be common."
Jackson said this generation of students faces "new style challenges," comparing financial debt and lack of relevant education to Jim Crow laws and slavery.
"This is your student movement time," Jackson said, reminding students that education loans are unforgivable. "What is your agenda for today ... a big diploma and more debt than you can pay?"
The founder of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition and former candidate for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. presidency also talked about voter registration and the fight to make sure all citizens had a right to vote in U.S. elections. "You cannot not be registered to vote and make sense," Jackson said.
Other topics discussed were good character, preventive healthcare, poverty and global awareness. Jackson advocated knowledge of a global society, and encouraged students to see their neighbors beyond "culture and color."
The Golden Voices Concert Choir performed several rousing numbers, including a special request from Jackson, which received a standing ovation.
Jackson also recognized legendary civil rights figure and attorney Fred Gray.
Jackson was in the area as part of his visit to Alabama to award 24 "PUSH for Excellence" scholarships to students at Tuskegee and Alabama State University. Twelve students at Tuskegee will receive $1,000 each from the organization.
