Frank Leon Roberts, Oakland California, January 2017
“The Humanities Institute at the University of South Florida hosted Frank Leon Roberts in January 2017 and he was electric. His insight into the history and complexity of race relations in the U.S. is outstanding and his unique combination of scholarly work and community activism gives him insight into contemporary issues unlike any speaker I’ve seen. His energy is contagious and we received nothing but glowing praise after his visit to USF. Both organizations and individuals can find it difficult to talk about race, but Roberts facilitates conversation with enthusiasm and honesty, encouraging the kind of open dialogue that is sorely needed in this country. The Black Lives Matter Syllabus is an extraordinary intersectional work rooted in scholarship and addressing contemporary social issues. Frank brought our audience to their feet and I’m confident that whether your organization is on the leading edge of racial justice or just beginning to have conversations, Frank Leon Roberts is someone you need to work with.”
“Frank Roberts, through a powerful combination of voice, passion, expertise—and what I can only describe as love—captivates large crowds the way most of us wish we could but few are able to.”
“Frank Roberts, through a powerful combination of voice, passion, expertise—and what I can only describe as love—captivates large crowds the way most of us wish we could but few are able to.”
The BlackLivesMatterSyllabus Tour
The Black Lives Matter Syllabus Tour helps audiences understand the history and significance of the Black Lives Matter movement while promoting education as a means of effective community organizing.
Frank Roberts's energetic presentations bridge the gap between theory and practice, as he complements decades of firsthand experience as a grassroots political organizer with an intellectual framework supported by his deep historical knowledge of human rights activism and grassroots organizing.
As he recounts the origins of BLM and the social context that the movement emerged from, Frank captivates audiences with his passionate declarations in favor of empowerment for marginalized communities. He inspires participants to learn from the past and use their energy today to create a world that works for everyone.
Designed to energize, mobilize, and inspire college students and progressive communities--the Black Lives Matter Syllabus Tour reminds us that it is our duty to fight for our freedom and it is our duty to win.
Spring 2017 BlackLivesMatterSyllabus Keynote Engagements:
- Harvard University Kennedy School of Government
- University of California Berkeley
- Quinniapiac University
- University of Southern California
- University of Southern Florida
- The Head Royce School
- Bellevue College
- Wikipedia (The Wikimedia Foundation)
- Washington State Students of Color Association
- Earlham College
- Kalamazoo College
- Emzingo Group
