This morning I saw the maintenance crew beginning to construct the platform for graduation. I’m excited about graduation next week, but I know I’m most certainly going to miss Bates. For now, let me enjoy the last few days of my short term class on the HBO hit show “The Wire.”
Commencement at Bates is almost here
Freshman year at Bates
Congratulations on your acceptance to Bates College!
I know many of you are still undecided on whether Bates is the right place for you. Many of you have visited the campus, reviewed the website, perused brochures, spoken with current Bates students, and chatted with Bates alums; yet still cannot discern if Bates is the best college for you. I want you to know that I understand. Well here’s my small advice to you on how to make your decision: I suggest that you ask yourself the following questions:
(1) What are my academic goals?
(2) How do I wish to grow personally?
(3) Do I believe Bates can help me develop my personal and intellectual interests?
I chose Bates because I desired to attend an institution with a good academic reputation, a strong community of students interested in social change, and a place where students have excellent relations and interaction with administrators, faculty and staff. If an institution did not have these qualities, I immediately took it off my list. Today, I’m happy I remained committed to choosing an institution that possessed these characteristics because I have benefited from being challenged intellectually, learning from other socially conscious students, and having the support of the entire Bates community in times of need.
Think of things important to you and attempt to make a sound decision on whether Bates has attributes that are most significant to you. Make a mature decision that does not include observing college rankings. Take time to investigate whether you can not only see yourself being apart of a particular college community, but try to imagine whether you can see yourself becoming an integral part of that college community. I can only hope Bates is that place.
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
People, I completed my thesis last Monday! It was the most arduous task that I have ever undergone. I gave up many weekend festivities, woke up early, and stayed up long evenings to complete the project. It was an intellectually stimulating and quite rewarding process. When I turned in my thesis, there were several staff, faculty, and administrators present to congratulate me on my accomplishment. They then fed me! YESS! That was very nice of them.
In the history lounge with my thesis adviser Professor Hilmar Jensen and his other thesis advisee putting the final touches on the thesis at 2:00am on a Saturday morning...photographer Phyllis Graber Jensen of Bates College
There are a number of people that I could thank for helping me complete this project, but I’m most especially grateful to my thesis adviser Dr. Hilmar Jensen, Czerny Brasuell of Multicultural Affairs, and my sister for assisting me throughout the entire thesis process. I dedicated my thesis to the three women who have most impacted my life: my mother, my sister, and my deceased grandmother!
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Last night, I learned that I had been admitted to the Master of Arts in Religion degree program at Yale Divinity School (YDS). Specifically, I was accepted into YDS’s M.A.R. degree concentration in Black Religion in the African Diaspora. I’m extremely surprised, humbled and thankful for the decision made by Yale Divinity School’s Admissions Committee. Immediately after I received this good news, I thanked God and then contacted some of my friends, family, and mentors about my acceptance. However, I could not celebrate long. I still have a significant amount of work ahead of me. Shortly after making a few phone calls and sending out several text messages, I rushed back to my thesis project. I really want to produce a solid thesis. I’m just so passionate about this.Yet, I sincerely want to thank everyone at Bates that has and continues to be so wonderful to me for their love and kindness throughout my time here. I love Bates and my acceptance into YDS would not have been possible without the folks here. I’m currently in operation graduation mode! I want to finish strong. Please wish me good luck!
Talk to you later! Thanks everyone!
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Copyright UCLA
I have been offered admission to the University of California, Los Angeles M.A. program in Afro-American Studies. I’m thrilled about the opportunity to study at such a phenomenal research university for graduate school. I want to thank two of my mentors at Bates, Dr. Charles Nero a professor in the programs in African American Studies and American Cultural Studies and Rhetoric Department and Czerny Brasuell, the Director of Multicultural Affairs, for supporting me throughout the graduate school process. Bates has prepared me well for graduate school, yet I’m still nervous about the new environment. But I must admit, I’ve been playing the song “California Love” over and over again since I received word on my acceptance yesterday morning. Yet, I have not confirmed my attendance because I still have to some issues to work out before I make a final decision. However, I’m very happy about having this institution as an option. I’ll keep you posted.
African American Studies has been my life for the past four years and I want to continue to have an enriching experience in the field! God is good!
BACK TO MY AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDIES THESIS! I can’t celebrate too long at all!
Yours in the Struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Hello everyone, I know I have not communicated with you for some time now. However, I want to let you know that it’s been for a good reason. I have been occupied with my senior thesis which is a required project that all Bates students have to do before they graduate. Students meet with their advisers once a week to discuss the project and we are responsible for getting done an extensive report on a topic of our choice. It’s an arduous task, but its rewarding because it helps student prepare for graduate school type research. I’m currently writing a combined thesis in African American Studies and Philosophy. But, I’m going to do a better job updating you folks in internet land with whats going on in my life haha.
Here is my thesis abstract in African American Studies and Philosophy:
Adviser: Hilmar Jensen
Photo courtesy of Richard Avedon
The Conflict Within: SNCC, Black Integrationists, and Black Nationalists: Integrationist and Black nationalist philosophies are, arguably, divergent and irreconcilable strategies adopted, at different times, in the long-range struggle for Black liberation in the U.S. My thesis focuses on the relationship between these ideologies as methods of protest, and how these methods have shaped protest tactics and ideologies taken for granted by African Americans today. It attempts to answer three related questions: During the key period 1960-1968, how might we assess the array of political perspectives within the Black community? How did the balance between Blacks supporting integrationist or Black nationalist philosophies shift? What did this mean? Throughout this period, individual activists and organizations debated the efficacy of both integrationist and Black nationalist ideologies. Some radically altered their ideological and practical commitments to embody one or the other of these two strands of thought. My project specifically examines the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, the Black Freedom Movement’s vanguard in these years, exploring how and why its members’ philosophies shifted from integrationist toward nationalistic perspectives as a means for social change. It seeks to illuminate why Blacks chose certain philosophies and how the presence of multiple forms of social thought has affected possibilities for a unified Black liberation struggle today.
Yours in the Struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Photo courtesy of the Bates College Office Services website
A few weeks ago, I was rushing to send off an important package. I pulled out my wallet to pay for the package, yet Bates’ mail center only takes cash or check. I placed my debit card on the counter, thinking that I would pick it up later and pulled out my checkbook. I then left the mail center, happy that I finally delivered the package. A few hours later, I decided to go to Milts (campus variety store) to pick up some snacks for evening studying. I reached for wallet to pull out my debit card and it wasn’t there. I said to my self “ughh I must have left it in the mailroom.” The mailroom was closed now. I now had to wait until the next morning to see if it was still there.
The next morning, I returned to the mail room and one of Bates staff members was there. She said, “you left something here yesterday didn’t you.” I said “wow, thank you Jesus.” She had stored my debit card in a safe location and returned it to me. I was pleasantly surprised that it didn’t go missing or was stolen. I shouldn’t had been because integrity among folks at Bates is what makes our college special.
That’s Bates for ya. People here for the most part are honest and caring. That’s the Bates way!
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Bates College student organizations Amandla!, New World Coalition and the Haward Center for Community Partnerships recently sponsored a Health Care Forum held in Chase Hall Lounge. The forum was moderated by Marshall E. Hatch ’10
The Health Care forum fielded questions from local experts in public health. Physician Dr. Alice Haines, Maine insurance industry lobbyist Dan Bernier, and Ali Zander, a Bates alumna and representative for the Maine People’s Alliance were members of the panel.
The forum addressed questions concerning the recent congressional health care reform bill and also clarified any confusion over the bill. It was an excellent discussion!
Here are photos from the event:
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
I attended Bates annual Multi-Faith dinner sponsored by the Office of the Chaplain. The Multifaith dinner celebrates diversity in faith at Bates. Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, Catholic, Christian Science, Jewish, Muslim and other faiths shared their stories about how faith has impacted their lives. The food was delicious and I was treated to a Indian dance performance. I ate well, enjoyed the entertainment and learned a lot.
Here are a few photos from the event.
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Bates Faculty
My fall break was excellent. I was able to relax, reunite with some of my friends and catch up on some work. When it was time for me to return to Bates, I began to search for individuals who could provide me with a ride back to campus. I immediately contacted some students at Bates and many of them were not available to pick me up. I became somewhat worried and I eventually resolved that I would have to pay for a shuttle to drive me from the airport to Bates.
But an interesting thing happened. I noticed a man on the plane with me who I believed was a professor at Bates. I had never met this man before, but I certainly recognized him. I said to myself, “hey I know this may be odd, but maybe I should ask him if he teaches at Bates and whether or not he could give me a ride to campus.” So, I approached him and asked him if he taught at Bates. He said yes and I of course identified myself. His name was Michael Murray and he taught in the Economics Department. Once I learned that he was a professor of economics I finally realized where I met him. I recalled spending long nights in Pettengill Hall (where the Economics Department is housed) and seeing him there sometimes in the evenings while studying. I then asked him if he could give me a ride and he surprisingly said YES. Thank God.
On our way back to campus we had a great conversation on politics, Bates, his decision to become an economics professor and community work. Professor Murray has been teaching at Bates for 24 years. Before teaching at Bates he taught at large universities. He noted he was compelled to teach at Bates because he loves interacting with students in smaller learning communities. He values getting to know students personally. This is something he found much more difficult to do at a larger university. I also learned that his son founded a community organization in Philadelphia that I’m familiar with called the Empowerment Group.
Professor Murray represents the character of Bates very well. Faculty, staff and administrators at Bates are always willing to assist students in times of need. This small act of kindness certainly provides a good representation of the quality of professors we have at Bates.
Thank you Professor Murray!
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
I attended the 2009 Freedom Summer Conference in Oxford, Ohio. The conference supported my academic interests.
This academic year, I’m writing a year long thesis in African American Studies that will examine the meaning behind whether Blacks shifted in support of two prevailing schools of thoughts: Black Integrationist and Black Nationalist social justice philosophies during the period of 1954-1968. Several participants at this conference worked with leaders/organizers of both Black Integrationist and Black Nationalist social justice philosophies and tactics. At this conference I received an opportunity to converse with those involved with Black Integrationist and Black Nationalist social justice philosophies during the period of my proposed study. Specifically, at the conference, I spoke with members of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee, the Congress of Racial Equality and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
The conference inspired me to continue my commitment to community service and activism. Conference presenters and activists were extremely helpful in advising me on my thesis topic. They were able to provide me with personal testimonies on their experiences with the movement that I could not receive from any textbook.
I truly appreciate the support of Bates College’s Multicultural Center, the program in African American Studies and Affirmative Action Office for providing me with funding to make the trip possible.
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Bates Family and Friends Weekend
This past weekend, parents, grandparents, siblings and friends were invited to share in the Bates experience with their children. They sat in classrooms, ate dinner in New Commons, cheered on the Bates Bobcats at sporting events and attended several arts and cultural events. Supposedly, there was a parents social as well, that students were not invited to. Who knows what goes down when our parents get together…
During parents weekend the Bates Acapella groups typically get together to perform for the Bates community. Here are the Bates Deansmen performing one my favorite songs.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xokS61o7WCg
O and the Bates modern dance company had a concert and thats was terrific. There was a packed house for the performance on Saturday and Sunday. I couldn’t take photos because it would’ve been distracting to the dancers.
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Admissions Officer Marylyn Scott preaches a sermon on "Being a Closet Christian" in the Chapel
Each week there is a protestant chapel service at Bates. It runs for about an hour. The service includes scripture reading, prayer, a gospel choir performance, and sometimes the Chapel is treated to a praise dance performance. One Sunday, we even had a huge dinner after service called “Sunday Dinner,” which reminded me of the good Sunday dinner I get back at home.
Marylyn Scott, Director of Multicultural Recruitment at Bates preached this past Sunday (October 4th, 2009) in the Bates Chapel on the subject “Being a Closet Christian.” In the sermon, she described her undergraduate experience at a large public university and how the institution’s social environment could have very well distracted her from being a responsible and dedicated Christian. Marylyn emphasized that in college, students should not lose themselves and let go of their moral principles. She noted that we must stand strong in our purpose and continue to live our Christian lifestyles.
Who would’ve known that an admissions officer could actually preach like a televangelist and inspire people to become better Christians? This encourages me to learn what other hidden talents Bates admissions officers have!! I guess I should not be that surprised because at Bates we see faculty, administrators and staff interacting with students in ways that many would never imagine could happen in college. Sometimes they counsel students, have dinner together and even chat about serious and not so serious topics. That’s Bates for Ya.
Marylyn Scott, job well done!
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
My friends and members of Bates College class of 2010 Marshall Hatch Jr (left side) and Greg Gumbs (Right Side)
Brother Phillips has returned to Bates College. Senior year is off and running. I’m happy to see my mentors and other administrators, faculty and staff here at Bates. Again, I believe the support these individuals give to students is phenomenal. This year, I’m attempting to write an honors thesis. I’m also taking the following classes: Philosophy: From Descartes to Kant, African American Studies: Prelude to the Civil Rights Movement and Biology: Human Reproduction. Any work I conduct in the natural sciences is difficult for me. So I imagine that the biology class I’m taking this semester will be challenging as well. Yet, if I work really hard I may manage to earn a decent grade in the class.
This semester I will be making several post undergraduate plans. I intend to enter graduate school or participate in some sort of community/volunteer service program after graduation.
I have so much to do, with so little time. However, I plan to “Keep [My] Eyes on the Prize [and] Hold on Hold on”
Pray for me!
Do well everyone!
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Institute Scholars
I have numerous vivid and wonderful memories from this summer. Here are some of the special moments I shared in summer ’09.
This summer I graduated from my two summer leadership program for African American male college students, The Institute for Responsible Citizenship in Washington, D.C.. Through the program, I received a unique opportunity to participate in hour long round table discussions with General Colin Powell, Congressman Arthur Davis, crisis management consultant Eric Denzehall, Republican Party National Chairman Michael Steele, the Vice-President of the College Board, renowned surgeon Dr. Ben Carson and many more. The highlight of this summer, as it was last summer, would be the significant amount of time I spent becoming further acquainted with the other talented students in the program. We were housed on the campus of American University for two months together. There we often burned the midnight oil, having conversations on social issues as well as engaging in all sorts of silly conversations on life. In the end, I know that the brothers in the program will do great things. In the future, I know we will work together as prophetic voices of peace, love, and justice.
2009 Institute Scholars
I conducted a research internship with the Smithsonian Institution Anacostia Community Museum in Southeast D.C.. I joined a team of student researchers in a community mapping project that traced the history of Houses of Worship in southeast D.C.. It involved collecting comprehensive surveys and all sorts of data collection of HOWs in southeast D.C.. This research complemented my current academic studies because I have considerable interest in preserving African American history. The project I worked on made an attempt to make the southeast D.C. community (predominately African American neighborhood) aware of their history through a community documentation center. It also empowered me on how to best collect archival information. I most especially learned how to utilize archives. I would like to extend a warm thanks to Smithsonian Institution Office of Fellowships and Minority Awards for making this research internship possible.
Summer 2009 Smithsonian Institution Anacostia Community Museum Interns
Furthermore, I became the President of Philadelphia’s Youth Action Team. Youth Action, is a youth led community based non-profit organization that I co-founded when I was 14 years of age at the Tavis Smiley Foundation National Youth to Leaders conference in Washington D.C.. Our organization works to empower young African Americans to become socially, economically, and civically aware. We believe that when young people are acutely aware of problems in their communities, they will be encouraged to better themselves and their communities. But the best part of Youth Action is that, the organization is solely led by high school and college aged youth. This year, as President, I will focus my attention on helping the team build the administrative end of our non-profit, while continuing to elevate our community service to the city of Philadelphia. I know that I will be taking on a large responsibility this year, yet I’m prepared for it.
Youth Action Executive Board with Tavis Smiley at their 2009 Charity Gala
Lastly, I devoted much consideration and time to preparing for either graduate school or the professional world after Bates. For years, I have told people that I have this intense desire to receive a PhD in African American Studies. Therefore, I’m reviewing masters and PhD programs for the degree. In addition, I’m also thinking about possible career opportunities that I can do once I graduate from Bates in May. We shall see what happens. I’m hoping for the best. However, I do know that Plan A is to enter a graduate program in African American Studies.
As you can see, my summer has been quite fruitful, eventful and very busy. But I’m pleased with how I spent and managed my time this summer.
I will be back at Bates in a week! Time for Senior Year!
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
National Council for Black Studies student awards luncheon
In March, I received a student writing award for an essay that I wrote for the National Council for Black Studies student essay contest. I submitted a paper entitled: Origins of the African American Experience: The African American Resistance Struggle. The paper examines how original tactics used in African American resistance struggles directly influenced protest methods employed by African Americans in proceeding resistance struggles. I argue that immense planning, along with immense pain, and immense struggle, filtered with agitation are crucial ingredients that can be found within African American resistance struggles. Spelman College professor of history, William Jelani Cobb PhD nominated my essay for the contest.
I placed third out of numerous student essays that were submitted, received a check for $125 and an opportunity to attend the National Council for Black Studies conference free of charge.
I want to encourage students of African American studies to apply for this writing contest sponsored by the National Council for Black Studies. To learn more about the contest visit http://www.ncbsonline.org/student_essay_contest
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Tavis Smiley will attend Youth Action’s 3rd Annual Charity Gala. The event will also honor the West Philadelphia YMCA’s outstanding service to the community. The creation of Youth Action is attributable to Smiley as the organization was founded six years ago by alumni of the Tavis Smiley Foundation. The event serves as the culminating event to the group’s two-year project to raise awareness about public health and as fundraiser for the organization.
Tavis Smiley is a widely celebrated journalist, PBS show host, philanthropist, author and activist. On both his PBS talk show and PRI radio show, Smiley interviews world leaders and entertainers about some of the most pressing issues concerning society today. In addition, Smiley’s involvement in current affairs extends beyond the studio to include work with youth leadership development with the Tavis Smiley Foundation, the documentary STAND, best selling book Covenant with Black America, and the All-American Presidential Forums. Smiley is truly one of America foremost leaders as evident by his 2009 TIME magazine recognition as one “The World’s 100 Most Influential People.”
The West Philadelphia YMCA located at 5120 Chestnut Street is a valued community member that helps it club members and local neighbors by operating a number of vital programs including nutrition, healthy living, and fitness classes. Managing Director James Jones states, ” At our upcoming gala we will honor the West Philadelphia YMCA not only for what they do inside their facility, but their work outside the walls of the YMCA.” “At the Gala, Youth Action will salute the YMCA for their willingness to improve the livelihoods of citizens young and old that Youth Action will salute at our Annual Gala,” he continued.
This year’s Gala will be held at the Hilton Philadelphia at 4200 City Line Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. The event will kick off at 6pm on August 15, 2009. Individual ticket cost is a minimal donation of $60. Youth Action is a 501 (c) (3) not for profit organization, all donations are tax deductible. Proceeds benefit Youth Action’s yearly community service projects. Sponsors include First Bank of Delaware, Marian R. Jones, and Health Partners. For more information about the event or how to purchase tickets, please contact James Jones at 1(888) YOUTH- 90 ext 903 or jjones@youthactionteam.org.
About Youth Action
Youth Action is a not-for-profit community organization founded in 2003 by alumni of the Tavis Smiley Foundation and consists of young African American teens and young adults aspiring for positive change in their communities. What sets Youth Action apart from many other community organizations is that aside from a handful of adults who are involved, high school and college students solely run the organization. These ambitious and dynamic youth are committed to making an effective change in their communities. Youth Action’s mission is to empower young African Americans to become socially, economically and civically aware. Through organizing innovative events and programs that raise public awareness about issues in underrepresented communities Youth Action is committed to the social uplift of young people. For more information about Youth Action and its outreach programs, please contact spokesperson James Jones at jjones@youthactionteam.org 1-888- YOUTH- 90 or visit us at: www.youthactionteam.org
About the Tavis Smiley Foundation
The Tavis Smiley Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded in 1999 by media personality Tavis Smiley to enlighten, encourage, and empower youth by providing leadership skills that will promote and enhance the quality of life for their lives, their community and the world. Since its inception, more than 5,500 youth have participated in the foundation’s leadership workshops and conferences. The foundation is based in Los Angeles. For more information, visit www.youthtoleaders.org
2008-2009 Morehouse College visiting student
Whenever I recall my yearlong study at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, I never fail to mention to people that the insignia of a Morehouse education emphasizes a moral imperative to serve. In a sense, at Morehouse, I entered a “fraternity” founded on brotherhood, academic excellence and service. Through this network, I became familiar with the values that strengthen Morehouse students to reach this plateau in life.
Men of Morehouse are not simply charged to become successful, they are charged to become great. This definition of greatness extends well beyond individual accomplishment; it insists that greatness reflects a communal experience with a focal point on uplifting their communities. Morehouse students are destined. They choose not to settle for mediocrity in their chosen life pursuits and render to themselves high self expectations.
They share several conventional assumptions common to their institutional values. These challenging, yet tangible objectives include being well read, well spoken, well traveled, well dressed, and well balanced. These pillars empower Morehouse students to optimize their potential in order to become the best servants to humankind.
Morehouse contributed to my intellectual and social growth. I arrived at a serious understanding of Afrocentricity through a class I took with Dr. Samuel Livingston. I have a newfound respect for the philosophical thoughts of Marcus Garvey and Howard Thurman due to the leadership of Dr. Aaron Parker and Dr. Walter Fluker. Moreover, my appreciation for African American history and its applications became alive under the guidance of Dr. William Jelani Cobb. The countless number of informal lunch and dinner conversations on issues affecting the world and the crown forums I attended with some of world’s most esteemed public servants increased my social consciousness. These experiences deepened my concern for social, political and economic justice for people of African descent.
I made numerous friends and partake in a unique social experience with students who have frivolous yet enjoyable conversations. Thrilling, prideful and excitement are words that best describe Morehouse’s social life. On any given week, I could hear the sound of the marching band, attend pageants, observe Greek step and stroll shows, and attend weekly block parties known as “Hump Wednesday”; all of which added to the intellectual satisfaction I received at Morehouse. 
Morehouse changed me for the better. I now have more confidence in myself and a better sense of purpose. Students who wish to form lifelong friendships and desire an education for liberation should consider attending Morehouse as an exchange student. It forever changed my life, and I’m sure it will change yours. For this, I thank God for Bates’ generosity for helping me enhance my identity. I thank Bates for extending me the opportunity to have experienced the walk of a Man of Morehouse.
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
The 2009 Morehouse Student Government Association Elections have begun. SGA elections at Morehouse are filled with the most interesting campaign slogans, gimmicks and cut throat debates. Candidates literally run their campaigns similar to real political elections. I’m supporting candidates who are individuals who I think will best serve Morehouse next fall. These candidates are individuals who have demonstrated their love for Morehouse as well as their ability to be a effective leader. This surely has been a great experience. 
Election day is April 20th, 2009.
I decided to extend my studies at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. Last semester I began to develop great relationships with students and increase my involvement with organizations at Morehouse. Therefore, I thought it would be best to stay another semester. Also, I had this feeling that Morehouse would continue to help me develop a heightened social conscious as well as excellent personal development skills. I also happen to love it here too.
I must admit, I will miss many aspects of Bates while away.
Top 5
5) International Dinner: A time when international students prepare meals for the entire campus community from their homeland. The food is delicious and learning about food from different cultures can be intellectually stimulating and of course nourishing!
4) Amandla!: The Black student organization typically conducts an annual symposium on a particular issue concerning people of African Descent.
3) The Society of African American Studies: This organization is a developing organization at Bates. I serve as the moderator and upon my return to Bates in the fall 2009, I plan to work with other students to initiate a campus newsletter that provide a forum for student of African Americans Studies to publish their work and the newsletter will promote events and achievements from faculty and students within the African American Studies program.
2) People: The warm hospitality of faculty, administrators and staff at Bates who are always willing to make sure you are most comfortable academically and personally
1) MLK DAY: My most favorite time at Bates. Honestly it is.This is when the entire campus community is invited to come out to participate in workshops, forums and performances celebrating the life of Dr. King.
Brother Phillips
Its been a while since the last time I wrote, however, there is no better time to write then the present. My break was exhilarating and relaxing. Immediately upon my return home, I began work with my non-profit organization Youth Action on our annual toy drive, college networking event, and Christmas arts and crafts with kids at homeless shelters. I also attended events organized by the Morehouse’s Alumni Association and students who attend colleges within the Atlanta University Center. I attended a reception with Morehouse alumni and a bowling and church outing with students of the AUC. In addition, I attended a Board of Directors meeting for a non-profit called Spark the Wave, which works to ignite young people to become volunteers in their community through summer enrichment programs.
I received much guidance and support on summer internships and graduate school planning from Bates professors Charles Nero in the Rhetoric and Theatre Department and American Cultural and African Americans Studies program; Rebecca Herzig in the Women and Gender Studies program. In addition, Czerny Brasuell in the Bates Multicultural Center provided much support as well. Its great that you can call on great people at Bates to help you even over break.
Happy New Year
Brother Phillips
Friends and I rejoice after serving at Chosen 300 Soup Kitchen in Philadelphia on Christmas Eve
Youth Action member Erica at YA's arts and crafts event with children at the Eliza Shirley House in Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia Morehouse Alumni Association Recpetion
Standing in awe over the news that Barack Obama has been elected the 44th President of the United States of America with students and President Robert M. Franklin of Morehouse College
Tuesday November 4th, 2008 will be a day I will never forget. That day I got up early to head over to Morehouse College’s Archer Hall to vote for the next President of the United States of America.
I stood in line for three hours. I was nervous. This was the first time I have ever voted and I had prayed that the person I had decided to vote for would win. I couldn’t believe that I casted my ballot for an African American candidate for president. I voted for Barack Obama, a Black man and a person I believe could lead our country in the right moral and social path for at least the next 4 yrs. Never in my lifetime could I have imagined a Black person having a legitimate chance of becoming President of the United States of America.
Later that evening, I gathered with students from around the Atlanta University Center to observe the 2008 presidential election results. There were watch parties at Clark Atlanta, Spelman and Morehouse. However, I viewed the election results with students from Morehouse in Fredrick Douglass Hall. Upon hearing the results that Barack Obama will become the 44th President of the United States of America, myself and many other students at Morehouse moved into tears of joy, immense excitement, and pride. Each Black student stood in disbelief coupled with a personal story on how much this election meant to them. Students at Morehouse began to sing “Give me that OoooBAMA spirit” a remix version of one of Morehouse’s college hymms, “Ol Morehouse Spirit.” For this historical evening, I could have never dreamed a day when a Black man could receive so much support from so many races and earn the position of highest office in our country. This is truly amazing. I couldnt have asked for a better setting to have witness the results of the presidential election than Morehouse. I celebrated this election with socially conscious African American brothers who like me personally understood the deep meaning behind this election for people of African descent. Later into the evening, hundreds of emotional students filed the campus singing, dancing, praying, yelling, calling their parents/grandparents, and chatting on what this period in history meant to them. Sounds of the night included “I cant believe our President is Black”… “I love this country”… “Thank YOU LORD”…”He WON”…”WE WON”.
For me, this moment in history, proved to be the first time in my life that I had ever been so proud to be an American. As the President of Morehouse College, Dr. Robert Franklin, “Black people did not make this victory happen alone.” He reminded us that there was a collective effort among everyone from all racial, religious, social and economic backgrounds that made Obama’s victory possible. The implications of this election for Black males means that our nation will now have a national public symbol of a Black male who defies all stereotypes that have been traditionally linked to us. Moreover, with Obama’s victory I began to see the true possibilities for America. I have always believed in the possibilities for America’s advancement, yet I can now confirm that here in America anything can happen.
Praise God!
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
y October 26th, 2008. Tavis’ “My America” program gives selected U.S. citizens the opportunity to offer a personal reflection on how the upcoming presidential election will have an immense affect on their lives. I decided to offer a personal testament on the relevance and importance of education for our nation.http://www.tavissmileyradio.com/zen/TSR/guests08/102408/YouthCommentary_mp3.php
Quicktime Media Player Version
http://www.tavissmileyradio.com General Information on the show
Let me know what you think.
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Tavis Smiley and comedian Guy Black with Anthony A. Phillips after receiving the 2008 Emerging Youth to Leader Honoree
On Saturday October 4th, 2008 I flew to Los Angeles California to accept the 2008 Emerging Youth Leadership Award from The Tavis Smiley Foundation at its 2008 Salute to Youth Leadership Benefit. This award is given to “alumni member of the [Tavis Smiley] Youth to Leaders program who has demonstrated drive and determination toward becoming a leader.” I’m extremely humble to receive an honor from such a great foundation and from a individual whose contributions to our nation’s social fabric, I greatly admire, Tavis Smiley. During the benefit I met actress Jurnee Smolett who starred in the Great Debaters, singer and song writer Raheem DeVaughn, Wendell Pierce who stars in the hit HBO sitcom “The Wire” and another extraordinary young activist Angela Groves who is currently a freshman at Princeton University were among the many people I met at the ceremony. Thank you Ms. Vonda Paige, Tavis Smiley and the entire Tavis Smiley Foundation for granting me with such a honor. To learn more information about the award and the Tavis Smiley Foundation please visit http://www.youthtoleaders.org/styl.asp
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Cheering Section: Morehouse Homecoming Football Game vs. Albany State
Homecoming at a Historically Black College is certainly a electrifying experience. Morehouse’s homecoming in particular is much more than alumni, tailgating and the football game. It’s a week long event that celebrates the institution and induces school spirit amongst students. Morehouse combines their homecoming with one of its sister schools, Spelman College. Consequently, traditionally their homecoming has been called Spel/House. Plans for homecoming are completed thorouglly and well in advance. At this year’s homecoming a fashion show, a neo-soul concert, “A Dating Game” sponsored by Ebony, a hip hop concert, two coronations for each institutions homecoming kings and queens, coronation ball, the football game, a Greek Step Show, a alumni chapel service and many many PARTIES. This week long event was for me one of the most enjoyable experiences ever. I had so much fun interacting with students and meeting so many alumni.
This year at the football game I stood as one of the lead cheerers, helping to rally the Morehouse faithful.
Yours in the struggle, I am
Brother Phillips
Here are photos from various Homecoming events.
Members of Morehouse College's 2008-2009 Chapel Assistants program
2008-2009 Chapel Assistants, Morehouse College
The Reverend Willie Dwayne Francois III, President and King Scholar
The Reverend Dr. Lawrence Carter Sr., Dean of the Chapel
“The purpose of the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel is to teach excellence, ethics, equality and engagement. It is to demonstrate the interdisciplinary foundations of a learned ecumenical Christian ministry for the world; to create spiritual realization through value-and virtue-centered theologically based faith; and to inspire the communitarian development of servant scholars as visionary human rights revolutionists and social gospel activists coming from a place of Gandhian nonviolence and political personalism. This is Martin Luther King’s informed service-oriented way to dialectically grow, personally and globally, with Cosmic Companionship, into democracy’s dignity and destiny, ensuring that piety never will be divorced from intellect.” Courtesy of Morehouse College’s Chapel website http://www.morehouse.edu/about/chapel/index.html
Members of Spelman College's 2008-2009 Chapel Assistants program
2008-2009 Chapel Assistants
The Reverend Dr. Lisa D. Rhodes, Dean of the Chapel
“The Chapel Assistants Program is a leadership program that provides opportunities for personal development, vocational discernment, and liturgical leadership. Liturgical leadership opportunities are designed to strengthen public speaking skills, to encourage artistic expressions of faith and to nurture servant leadership through community service.” Courtesy of Spelman College’s Chaplain Assistant website http://www.spelman.edu/students/current/ministries/history.shtml
I have been inducted into both the Morehouse College and Spelman College Chapel Assistant programs. The Morehouse College Chapel Assistants program is under the direction of the Reverend Dr. Lawrence C. Carter and the Spelman College Chaplain Assistants Program is under the direction of Dr. Lisa D. Rhodes. These programs are supporting my efforts to lead a more spirtual life and establish a better relationship with God. In addition, I have found a network of positive people who are motivated to become changemakers in our world. I am incredibly thankful to be a Chapel Assistant at both of these wonderful institutions. Lastly, I want to give thanks to Ms. Elizabeth Alexander, a brilliant sister in Spelman’s class of 2010 who introduced me to the Chapel Assistant program at Spelman.
Brother Phillips: The Renaissance Man of Bates College 
