50 Years and Counting – Georgia Black History

Fifty years ago Ronald Yancey became the first African American to graduate from Georgia Tech.  Georgia Tech founded in 1885, did not admit African Americans until Yancey in 1968.  The admission of Yancey was not easy. He was rejected for not fitting the “Tech model of success.”  Just in case anyone pretends not to know what that means … it means he was not white enough to attend Georgia Tech.

After admission Yancey could not use the bus system, attend athletic events, or partake in any of the traditional campus activities.  Students would not sit near him in class or work on projects with him.  Yancey was even required to take exams other students were not required to take – because he was black.  Despite all of that Yancey persevered and ultimately graduated from Georgia Tech breaking a barrier that can never be replaced.

As we consider why do we celebrate black history month – it is important that we not forget our past lest we be doomed to forget it.  When we consider equality, remember that some Americans and their families received more than a 100 year head start.  Our country is still healing from the system discrimination that prohibited many Americans from getting access to basic necessities to succeed – like a quality education.   Fifty years was not at all that long ago.  There are African Americans all over Georgia working twice as hard to close the gap that they did not create themselves.  Remembering how these disparities were created by the previous generations is necessary so we can all remember we still have a part to play.

If you are the child or a grandchild of a Georgia Tech graduate who matriculated prior to 1968 (and more realistically before 1980 – because there were still great disparities in admission of non-white students after the 60’s) take a moment this Black History Month to appreciate the privileges you received to have a parental figure with a top education.  If you are a person of color who graduated from Georgia Tech since Yancey’s admission 50 years ago, take a moment to thank the trailblazers both in the administration who allowed Yancey to attend, as well as Yancey himself, who without his willingness to persevere through discrimination and hatred, you would not get a chance to participate in the best education our Country has to offer.

Learn more about Ronald Yancey here!