11 Recitation: The Soul of Humanity

In an essay composed shortly before his death on July 17, 2020, congressman and Civil Rights giant John Lewis wrote:

You must also study and learn the lessons of history because humanity has been involved in this soul-wrenching, existential struggle for a very long time. People on every continent have stood in your shoes, through decades and centuries before you. The truth does not change, and that is why the answers worked out long ago can help you find solutions to the challenges of our time.

Conversation Starter:

What can the writings and experiences of Ignatius Sancho and Olaudah Equiano teach you about your present moment?  Put some facet of their lives in conversation with yours.  You may write a paragraph or two or make a recording (no more than 3 minutes), drawing, or montage of images.  Make sure your response evinces your understanding of the eighteenth-century black experience and of the writings of Equiano and Sancho.

Recitation:

Share and discuss your reflections with your colleagues on your discussion board or in your Zoom meeting.

Report:

Write a report that includes your original reflection and provides a synthesis of your discussion: What range of views were expressed? What were the main points of agreement or disagreement?