The Bryan Series: Yusef Salaam

After nearly 3 years, the Bryan Series is back; now in the Tanger Center, and it is glorious. Last night, the series opened with Yusef Salaam. In 1989, Mr. Salam was convicted along with four other teenagers for a rape in Central Park in New York City. The then-teens  became known as the "Central Park Five" and were convicted in the press even before their trial.  The convictions were overturned in 2002. Since the exhoneration, Mr. Salam has dedicated his life to social justice issues, advocating for and educating young people. He has chosen to move on in life, looking forward, not backward. That message rings true in his book "Better, Not Bitter: Living on Purpose in the Pursuit of Racial Justice." Mr. Salam encourages young people, including his own children, to become the change they want in the world and work to break the generational curse.

While Mr. Salam was presenting on stage, his mother called. He took the call! During their brief on-stage conversation and throughout his talk, it became patently clear what a positive force his mother has been in his life. She was there guiding him all throughout the trial, sentencing, and his serving time. She helped him continue to believe in himself  and gave him guidance during those most difficult times. Even before, his mom was a positive force. As a single mom, she knew her 3 children needed positive male role models in their life.  Through the Boys and girls Club os New York City, a male big brother was found for Ms. Salam- a big brother who happened to be an accomplished district attorney and someone who is still in Mr. Salaam's life today.

It was such a thought provoking and powerful presentation. We are lucky to have opportunities to hear such high-quality presentations, and now in a beautiful venue, the Tanger Center!

Note: Thank you Katja Brown and Kim Diop for reminding me to mention we should now refer to these five as "The Exhonerated 5".

Comments

[William Kendall]

Well worth attending.

[Katja]

Thank you so very much for always keeping us abreast on everything that is going on in Greensboro and the surrounding areas. You are a treasure Janis!