On Thursday, February 10, former Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman visited Edison Intermediate fourth and fifth grade students in celebration and recognition of Black History Month.  Coleman shared with the students his beliefs on inclusiveness and acceptance.  He said, "No matter your race, creed, or color, everyone should be equal in the eyes of the law."  

 

He also shared that his great-grandmother, who he knew, was a slave.  She lived to be 104-years-old.  His grandmother was born into slavery as well, but was freed soon after. 

 

Coleman grew up in Toledo and recounted a time when he was a child and heard Martin Luther King, Jr., speak at a Toledo rally.  At the end of the rally, a collection bucket was passed throughout the crowd to support the civil rights movement.  Coleman had only one nickle in his pocket.  "I put that nickle in the bucket and was proud that I was helping to continue the civil rights cause," said Coleman.  "You don't always have to do a lot, but every little bit that you can do to make the world a better place counts."

 

Fourth grade classes are engaged in a month-long unit exploring the civil rights of African Americans.  Next month, fourth grade students will observe Women's History Month. 

 

Coleman is pictured with students and staff members including Grade 4 Teacher Jen Palmer (left) and Edison Intermediate/Larson Middle School Principal Tracie Lees (right).