Students Marching on E. Dublin-Granville Road for African-American Studies Course

This color photograph shows numerous Worthington Schools students and family members marching west on the north sidewalk along E. Dublin-Granville Road, and crossing the intersection of Morning Street and E. Dublin-Granville Road. Two marchers in the front hold signs that say "We need to learn about our heritage in school too!" and "Knowing our history gives us pride in ourselves!" Another student faces over his shoulder at the camera, while holding a sign towards the road, away from the camera. A line of marchers follows them.

The photo is undated, but most likely took place in April, 1991. At the time, the Worthington Schools had planned to roll out an African-American Studies course as part of its curriculum for the 1991-1992 school year, but announced plans to delay the course until the 1992-1993 school year as a cost-saving measure. 

An ad in the April 13, 1991 "Columbus Dispatch" explains: "For the past year and a half, the Worthington Alliance of Black Parents has worked closely with school staff to offer an elective course in African-American studies. Approval was given by the Curriculum Council and support was given by the principal and head of Secondary Education. The community was promised the course up through the time of the successful February 5 school levy in Worthington. When the course listing for next year was distributed, the African-American studies course was not on the list! Parents are asking WHY? The Board of Education has said 'no new courses' and so far does not appear to realize the negative impact on students." 

An article in the January 28, 1993 "Call and Post" by Jordana Shakoor explains further: 

"The Alliance is also responsible for the African American Studies course that is being taught at both of the high schools. The implementation of the African American studies course into the curriculum was the result of a march on the school board in the spring of 1991. 

"Rudy Lipscomb, president of the Alliance said that they had started meeting with the school board all through the school year, but it didn't look as though they were making an impact. 

"'We had to contact the news media and march on them in order to help persuade them,' said Lipscomb."

The Worthington Alliance of Black Parents is now known as the Worthington Alliance of Black Families and Educators, which works to augment the educational experience of students in Worthington Schools, raise the level of cultural awareness and provide opportunities for fellowship.