DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER SERIES TO HOST SOCIAL ACTIVIST JULIAN BOND

10/30/2013

As part of President Dana Mohler-Faria’s Distinguished Speaker Series, civil rights leader Julian Bond will be coming to the Bridgewater State University campus.

Bond, a former chairman of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), has accomplished many great things and is an inspiration for many.

In 1965, Bond was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives. Bond was also nominated for vice president of the United States in 1968 at the Democratic Convention. He was the first African-American to be nominated for vice president by a major political party.

“Mr. Bond is part of our history and his career in the Senate, House, and NAACP have greatly influenced the course of society,” said Brianne Boitano, coordinator of institutional events at Bridgewater State. “This is a great opportunity to see such a wonderful leader in person and even ask a question after Mr. Bond’s speech.”

Bond will give his speech in the Horace Mann Auditorium on November 5, at 7 p.m. The event is free, but is first-come, first-served and reservations are required.

According to Boitano, Bond started engaging in the Civil Rights Movement and organizing sit-ins during his youth, which shows how influential students can be.

Lisa Forest, director of the GLBT Pride Center, said it was her idea to bring Bond to campus.

“He’s one of my heroes,” Forest said. “He is an outspoken supporter of marriage equality. There’s an artificial divide between communities of color and the GLBT community. He recognizes that we’re stronger together than apart.”

Forest also called Bond a “pioneer of social justice,” and stressed Bond’s belief in non-violent protest.

“If you care about social justice, and about people having civil rights, you should go see him,” Forest said.

Boitano believes that from hearing Bond’s message and learning about his experiences, it can help benefit Bridgewater State students.

“He is a great example for students via his message, lifework, leadership and philanthropy,” Boitano said. “Mr. Bond speaks about diversity in terms of race, but also on a broader spectrum that champions social liberation efforts, rights and inclusion for all.

“Bond’s message greatly parallels Bridgewater State University’s approach to education,” Boitano added.

According to Brenda Molife, chief of staff to Mohler-Faria , the Distinguished Speaker Series started with the idea of bringing people of interest to the campus community.

Molife said Mohler-Faria met Bond previously, and he thinks Bond is a very inspirational speaker.

To reserve a seat for this event, call 508-531-6123.

Jennifer Christensen is a Comment news writer. Email her at jchristensen@student.bridgew.edu.