Ashley English, associate professor of strategic communication, is serving as moderator for a TCU Black History Month event, “Trailblazing the Future: Insights from Earl Graves Jr.” Graves is the CEO of Black Enterprise Magazine. Ahead of the event, English talked about what she hopes the event will accomplish, why these conversations are important and her own thoughts about the role of media in impacting the future by recounting the past.
What will this conversation focus on?
In the conversation Feb. 4, Mr. Graves and I will discuss various topics that include, but are not limited to, learning more of his personal story and the factors that have shaped him as a man and business leader. We’ll consider the role of Black media today and hear his reflections on the state of Black businesses. We will also hear his advice for aspiring business leaders who seek to use their influence to impact the world in meaningful ways.
What do you hope to accomplish in your conversation?
Mr. Graves comes from a family with deep convictions about the importance of wealth creation, especially for the Black community. I hope we all learn more about the roots of these convictions while gaining new information about an influential leader and key events that have shaped his life. The beauty of Black History Month lies in the opportunity to reflect on the personal stories of leaders in various contexts, and Mr. Graves comes from a lineage of impactful individuals. I hope his story inspires someone else to write their own story and to use his life lessons as fuel to keep growing. I hope people of all backgrounds gain insight into the importance of wealth creation, understand the importance of Black-businesses and Black media, and can see the humanity in every leader.
Why are conversations like this important?
They allow us to connect with someone who is like and/or different from us. These discussions give us insight into other industries, cultures and ways of being, which are profoundly important in light of TCU’s mission of educating students to be ethical leaders and responsible citizens in the global community. Black History Month provides a means for learning more about Black culture and how leaders in this identity group help shape the world around us. In a time where some are shutting down conversations that welcome diverse perspectives or intentionally discussing how to pursue equitable outcomes for individuals and groups who have been systemically left out or ignored, I’m so grateful to moderate a conversation that keeps the door open for healthy discussions about unique lived experiences that offer viable solutions for elevating the quality of life for all. There is beauty in diversity, and I look forward to hearing Mr. Graves’ perspective.
What can you tell us about your thoughts on the role of media and communication in reflecting on Black history and charting the future?
Personnel working in media and communication should be responsible storytellers who know and understand history. Black history is American history. So, to tell better, accurate and responsible stories, we must consider the unique role that Black media play in helping do so. When mainstream media would not report on issues facing the Black community during times of discrimination, the Black press did. Publications like Black Enterprise, Ebony, Jet, the Dallas Examiner, Dallas Weekly, The Chicago Defender, Fort Worth Black News, Lake Como Weekly, The Houston Defender, all the way back to The Free Man’s Press and Freedom’s Journal, created stories to educate the Black community on policies and events that impact their lives, tell their stories, celebrate their culture, address misrepresentation and combat stereotypes. The publications and their archives tell rich stories that help us learn about issues, meet leaders and respect the humanity of others. Many of those publications operate today, along with new broadcasting options. We all benefit when journalists and other storytellers have a solid grasp of Black history. When we understand the past, we can learn from it and chart a better future because of it.