Students speak on Black history

Troy’s History Club held a Black History Month roundtable that encouraged students to reflect on Black history, military service and the importance of learning from the past. 

The discussion created space for students to connect historical events to modern 

 society, emphasizing how understanding history can help prevent past injustices from 

 being repeated. 

“I felt like the conversations reinforced the importance of remembering history as a tool for growth,” said Ashton Chancery, a freshman anthropology major from Brewton, Alabama.  

The roundtable highlighted how Black people have overcome hardship while continuing 

 to support and serve the country. 

A topic that stood out to Chancery was the role Black people played in the U.S. military. 

“Learning about their service over time helped me better understand how deeply Black history is tied to the country’s progress,” Chancery said. “Remembering heritage is especially important as society continues working toward equality.” 

The discussion also allowed students to reflect on current events. During the discussion, Dani Kimbrough, a freshman criminal justice major from Athens, Alabama, focused on the resilience of Black people throughout history.  

“The roundtable showed how, despite facing discrimination and inhumane treatment, African Americans consistently fought for the betterment of the nation,” Kimbrough said. “Conversations like these help present history in a clear and accessible way.  

“By learning accurate historical information, students are able to better understand the past and form their own perspectives. I hope that students who attended left recognizing how essential African Americanshave always been to society.” 

Adding historical context, guest presenter Dr. David Carlson addressed the importance of understanding the contributions from Black people during the Civil War. He 

 highlighted the role of Black troops, including those from the South who fought for the 

 United States and end of slavery. 

“Academic settings allow for open and thoughtful discussion of history,” Carlson said. “In a time when public conversations can become politically charged, events like this one provide a space where ideas can be examined carefully and respectfully. 

This discussion gave students an opportunity to reflect on Black history 

 and its lasting impact, emphasizing why understanding the past continues and why it 

 matters.