31 August marks the United Nations' International Day for People of African Descent, an occasion to celebrate the remarkable contributions of individuals from the African Diaspora and acknowledge the enduring legacy they have left on our world. As we delve into this year's theme, "Fighting slavery's legacy of racism through transformative education," we are drawn into a realm where education becomes a force for positive change. In this context, NWAMI International Malta (NIM) would like to reflect on the contributions of late Marva Collins (1936 -2015), an African American pioneer of transformative education methods whose work shines as a beacon of hope and progress.
Marva Collins, a luminary in the realm of education, breathed life into an approach that went beyond the boundaries of traditional teaching, inspiring profound shifts in how we view learning. In a world where education has the potential to shape the future, Marva Collins recognised that it was a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and societal change.
Marva Collins was presented with the National Medal of Humanities by President George W Bush in 2004.
Her story echoes the very essence of this year's theme. She was a beacon of change, igniting minds and souls with the transformative potential of education. With boundless dedication, she founded the Westside Preparatory School, a place where students who had been marginalised by society found themselves welcomed, cherished, and given the tools to break free from the chains of prejudice.
Through her visionary approach, Collins embodied the spirit of fighting the legacy of racism. She believed that education was not just a means to convey facts; it was a force that could dismantle barriers, challenge unjust norms, and empower students to rise above the expectations society had set for them. With her guidance, students not only learned the power of knowledge but also the power of their own voices and agency.
As we celebrate the International Day for People of African Descent, we should honour Marva Collins' legacy. Her journey exemplifies the potential for education to catalyse change, to heal wounds, and to empower individuals to become active participants in the fight against racism's enduring legacy.
So, as we reflect on the contributions of the African Diaspora and their indelible impact on the world, let us also remember the transformative educators like Marva Collins. Let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of transformative education, recognising that through knowledge, empathy, and understanding, we can forge a future that breaks free from the chains of racism's past and embraces the limitless potential of all individuals, regardless of their background.
NWAMI International Malta strives to promote cultural understanding, respect, and harmony among diverse communities. For more information visit https://nwamiinternational-malta.org/
Maria-Gabriele Doublesin is President of MWAMI International Malta