Black History Month, like every month of the year, is the prime time to highlight the achievements of Black people in a variety of professions.
This year, Bradley is concluding this month of celebrations on Friday by permanently cementing the memory of an esteemed Black Bradley alumnus, Major Robert Lawrence Jr.
Lawrence, who graduated from Bradley with a bachelor of science in chemistry in 1956, served in the Air Force and became the first African-American astronaut, represents Black excellence and Black people’s ability to break barriers and demand a seat at tables they were once not allowed at.
For a predominantly white institution like Bradley, creating and displaying a statue of Lawrence in a high-traffic area of campus is a welcome gesture that is sure to make Black students and alumni feel valued and seen for their contributions.
Bradley’s Common Data Set for the 2024-2025 school year states that Black students make up 12.2% of the Bradley undergraduate student population, and these students still face microaggressions, a lack of support and a lack of representation.
Being able to walk across Olin Quad and see a Black man as a fixture of this campus is a potent and necessary reminder that Black students belong here and deserve to be heard, seen and respected.
This comes at a time when politicians attack diversity in the workforce and education, suggesting inclusive practices are unlawful and rewarding of undeserving candidates. In reality, these policies aim to provide equal opportunities to a community that has been continually mistreated by the oppressive system on which America was founded.
The fact is: Black people have always been excellent, and Lawrence’s commemoration represents how much past generations pave the way for the future and inspire us to seek greatness against all odds.
Despite the statue’s concept not originating within the university, it’s nice to see a Black person who is a part of Bradley’s legacy being publicly honored.
Bradley still has a long way to go in making Black students feel recognized, but Lawrence’s statue is a much-appreciated step in the right direction.