By Javar Juarez (CUBNSC) Richland County, S.C. - As Black History Month begins across Richland County, local Black leaders gathered to champion our youth and bridge generational divides. Community stalwarts focused on reducing crime and poverty, reinforcing unity and pride, and highlighting the collective strength that exists within us all. With perfect Southern weather on February 1st, the day radiated warmth, community spirit, and a palpable sense of hope.
A Day of Hope, Healing, and Community Connection
The day opened with Serve and Connect’s Compass Partner Community Event at Historic Earlewood Park—a celebration of hope and a call for village healing and unity. Organizer Erica Staley, Columbia Compass Program Manager, set the tone by emphasizing the importance of building relationships between citizens and law enforcement. “We are here because, as is often said, neither law enforcement nor community members can arrest their way out of violence,” Staley explained. “The solution lies in what we do between those moments. This event is about capacity building—arming each of us with the tools to respond, engage, and transform our communities without having to wait for someone else to step in.”
Former South Carolina House candidate and community organizer Jonnieka Farr moderated a community panel featuring a mix of voices—from high school students and parents to community leaders and officers. Among the panelists were Jhamori Smith, founder and executive director of Rise and Shine Inspiration; co-chairs Nasir Asanti and Jarius Jones from Gangs and Peace; and Regina E. Williams Booker Washington Heights, President and retired educator.
Jhamori Smith reminded everyone of the deeper historical and cultural factors behind today’s challenges. “We’ve been intentionally disconnected over time,” he observed, adding, “When you strip away the surface, the roots of our problems lie in a loss of understanding of our own history and identity.” His words encouraged the audience to look beyond immediate crises and consider how the media and entertainment industries may mislead our youth.
Jarius Jones drew attention to the erosion of traditional community spaces that once nurtured young people’s social skills. “There was a time when kids met face-to-face, played together, and built real connections,” he noted. “Now, social media has replaced genuine interaction, and that disconnect is at the heart of many conflicts today.” His reflection underscored the urgent need for safe, communal spaces where youth can learn conflict resolution and build relationships.
Nasir Asanti offered a thought-provoking perspective on freedom and cultural identity. “Freedom isn’t just doing whatever you want—it’s living in a way that honors your true nature,” he explained. “We must recognize that our rites of passage and community traditions aren’t outdated—they’re essential for guiding our youth towards true independence.” His remarks served as a reminder that while modern society may push individualism, the wisdom of our traditions remains vital for healthy community growth.
Regina E. Williams reminded everyone of the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, even amidst the challenges of community work. “In all that we do to support our community, we must not forget to focus on the positive and recognize the good around us,” she emphasized. “We have parents working two and three jobs who still show up to serve, helping to feed the children. And it’s not uncommon to see Mr. Willie roll up with his barbecue pit while we all gather under a shade tree, coming together to serve our community.” Williams affirmed her commitment, stating, “I am here to support the parents and the children, but also to shine a light on the positivity that exists within our community.”
Attendees enjoyed delicious snacks and lunch, but the real nourishment came from these powerful messages. The panel’s dialogue provided a deeper understanding of the systemic issues behind youth violence and community fragmentation. It also reinforced the notion that healing and transformation require both individual action and collective commitment.
While the event celebrated unity and proactive dialogue, it also acknowledged the longstanding distrust between community members and law enforcement—a barrier that must be overcome for lasting change. As Erica Staley emphasized, true progress comes from building bridges and taking responsibility for the spaces we share.
Handle It: Lower Richland Students Come Full Circle
Cheryl Harris, a dedicated national advocate for children, has served on the Richland County School District One Board of Commissioners for over a decade. She played a key role in advocating for free school lunch programs and initiatives aimed at helping students recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Beyond her work in education policy, Harris is also the co-founder and vice president of the Lower Richland Alumni Foundation, an organization committed to fostering student success in the arts and beyond.
Established in February 2017, the Lower Richland Alumni Foundation was founded with a vision to support and serve as a resource hub for the schools and broader Lower Richland community. In its first year, the foundation conducted a comprehensive assessment of key community needs—including education, workforce development, healthcare, affordable housing, and overall quality of life. From these assessments, strategic plans for implementation and sustainability were developed. Over the years, the foundation has cultivated partnerships with sponsors and stakeholders to provide essential resources and opportunities for students and families.
Harris hosted the cast of Handle It, a student film project in collaboration with Lower Richland High School students. She expressed immense pride in the students' growth throughout the project, highlighting how they overcame initial shyness to develop confidence in their craft. “I saw a change in them. They were so shy and timid at first, but throughout the project, I saw real growth. I got to see all of you blossom,” Harris shared.
Handle It was co-written in part by Stephanie Moore, writer for PBS’s The Cool and the Strong. Moore explained the origins of the film, saying, “Handle It was based on a script I wrote about ten years ago. We took excerpts from that and condensed it to allow these students to develop their own versions of the characters. I think they did wonderfully.” The film was produced by Perry Moore Entertainment, adding a professional touch to the student-led project.
At the celebratory luncheon following the film's completion, students reflected on the challenges they faced—embracing vulnerability, stepping outside their comfort zones, and adapting to the demands of a professional production. Harris recognized their dedication by awarding each student for their participation and offering words of encouragement. “Keep going,” she urged. “You are part of a connected village, and we are here to support you.”
Through projects like Handle It, the Lower Richland Alumni Foundation continues to create meaningful opportunities for students to explore their talents, build confidence, and connect with their community in transformative ways.
Black History Month: Breaking Bread with the Elders: A Celebration of Legacy and Community
A community’s strength is found in its ability to bridge generational divides, ensuring that wisdom is passed down and the struggles of the past fuel progress for the future. At the Richland County Library: Lower Richland Branch, that connection was cultivated in a deeply moving way. The space, overflowing with small children and young people, became a place of shared history and cultural pride as they sat with community elders—listening to firsthand accounts of resilience, perseverance, and triumph over systemic barriers designed to obstruct Black success.
Through storytelling, the youth gained a deeper understanding of their local history from those who survived decades of political and corporate oppression aimed at delaying progress for African Americans in South Carolina. But the exchange was not one-sided. The elders, too, were enriched—delighting in the energy, talent, and brilliance of the students from Horrell Hill Elementary. In a vibrant, joyous atmosphere, children ran freely through the multipurpose space while old-school music played in the background. Laughter rang out over plates of Southern fried chicken, warm conversation flowed between generations, and a sense of cultural affirmation filled the air. This was the South Carolina that so many know and love—a South that thrives in community, tradition, and unwavering resilience.
Among the distinguished elders present was Baba Amin Imamu Ojuok, Director of African Studies at UASC (Uhuru Academy) International, a community organizer, and a children’s advocate. He was joined by Ruttaskhi Aakhu Aba, manager of the House of Hathor Libation House and Cultural Center in Columbia, South Carolina. Both pioneers in Richland County, they are dedicated to challenging an outdated Eurocentric education system and advocating for the future of Black children. Their work provides safe spaces where children can simply be, while offering parents the support and encouragement they need.
This was not an event rooted in mere tradition or religious formality—it was an intentional celebration of the African diaspora, a revival of cultural awareness, and a restoration of village consciousness. Baba Amin and Ruttaskhi continue to uplift the community by removing the blinders of colonial thought, reminding Black people of their collective power, and creating opportunities for collaboration, education, and self-determination.
Also present was Chris Fleming, a renowned speaker, community elder, and location manager for the Richland County Library: Lower Richland Branch. Fleming emphasized the importance of respecting cultural differences while honoring the traditions of our ancestors. “We cannot forget what our grandparents taught us—including how to pray for one another,” he shared. As a local Imam, his words carried weight, inspiring a sense of unity and purpose among those in attendance. The children, fully engaged, exuded a sense of peace, focus, and joy, embodying the very spirit of the village mindset being restored before our eyes.
A Community Standing Strong
At a time when Black communities across the country remain under attack by radicalized political forces and racist factions, these gatherings serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience, tenacity, and cultural pride that fortifies us. We are not easily torn down when we stand united. Richland County is not only holding strong—it is rising higher.
Through intentional community-building, shared responsibility, and the celebration of our rich heritage, we continue to create spaces for peace, empowerment, and love. The energy of all these events reflects a truth that history has long proven: when we embrace our collective strength, we are unstoppable.
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