Assistant director of Educational Access Program James Williams and his colleague Sean Spinks hosted a panel discussion about the role of African-American men in today’s society on Monday, Feb. 13, at the University Center Redhawk’s room at Southeast Missouri State University. On the panel was assistant director of Educational Access Program James Williams and his colleague Shawn Space.

The discussion had two hosts, four counselors sitting in the front, and 21 guests, including Southeast students, business owners and Southeast alumni. Dinner was served before the discussion, and audience members were given a chance to get familiar with each other before the discussion started. During the panel discussion, all the attendants could feel free to bring up their ideas, and the counselors cooperated with their questions and concerns.

This panel discussion addressed the role of African-American men in three main aspects: education, community involvement and in politics, as well as helping African-American students develop and approach success was the key point of this discussion.

“Going to a university is important, knowing what you are doing and what you are good at are equally important.” Jibrel Haneef said, the plant manager of Signature Packaging and Paper Company said.

“The African-Americans should not think in skin color, instead, they should learn to deal with integrity, and let other people to treat you with integrity.” Haneef said.

When discussion claimed the African-American men’s role in community involvement, guests went along with the idea that African-American teenagers are the young blood of this community.

“They should think more about their future and come up with some concrete plan to help them navigate their direction and accomplish their goals.” Bital Rashid said.

While hosts were questioning who is the leader of this community, Stafford Moore said “who will lead you better than yourself.”

This rhetorical question provided a bright side for those who may be concerned about the political environment in the United States.

“Trump’s presidency has been barbing more people’s attention, and it might help to get more African-Americans to get their education done,” Williams said “It is good to see more people participate in politics.”

While guests were asked about their favorite part during this panel discussion, Southeast senior Corrier Talton indicated he really enjoyed having those people gathered together and talking about the current society.

“It was good to have some open dialogues, and people are able to share their experience with others.” Smith DeAute, a graduate student at Southeast, said.