20-02-2025
5 THINGS: Derryl Venters speaks about Black History
Retired educator and Co-Grand Marshal of this year's MLK Day Parade Derryl Venters discusses what Black History month means to her.
1 What Black person has had the biggest impact on your life, and why?
'My mother had the biggest impact on my life. She taught me to be the best me I could be. She told me not to worry about being different because God loved diversity. That is why I was different in appearance from my siblings. That is why people of different races looked different. God loves diversity.'
2 What Black historic figure or notable living person do you admire most?
'I admire Martin Luther King and the impact he made on this nation. I will always remember his 'I Have A Dream,' speech on Aug. 28, 1963 in Washington D.C. at the Lincoln Memorial. That speech is as relevant today was it was over 61 years ago.''
3 What and who comes to mind when you think of the contributions made by the Black community throughout American history?
'George Washington Carver comes to mind when I think about contributions made by the Black community throughout American history. He was a Black scientist and inventor famous for his work with the peanut; he invented more than 300 products involving the crop, including dyes, plastics, and gasoline. Born enslaved, Carver developed an interest in botany and eventually earned a master's degree from the Iowa State Agricultural College (now Iowa State University). He became a longtime teacher at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, an advocate for farmers, and an internationally renowned botanist who consulted for President Roosevelt and became the first African American to have a national monument created in his honor.'
4 What are ways to bring more unity in Muskogee?
'I think that one way to bring more unity in Muskogee is for the churches and ministers in our community to come together on a regular basis for worship and to discuss community issues of concern. The discussions could lead to unity and prayer for the changes needed in our city.'
5 Why is it important to dedicate this time towards recognizing the significant role of the Black community in American history?
'Until the leaders and citizens of our country remember the intent of the Pledge of Allegiance and purpose to create a nation that fully respects all Americans, we need to remember and celebrate the contributions of all ethnic groups in our country.'
'I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.'
— Cathy Spaulding
