We’re just weeks away from the start of the 2022 session of the Modjeska Simkins School for Human Rights, and we can’t wait to meet the new students. Orientation is Feb. 20, with classes meeting Monday nights through June 27 on Zoom.

Dr. Robert Greene II will again serve as lead instructor, as he’s done since 2019. “The school has reminded me, time and again, why I decided to become a historian in the first place,” he said. “Talking to others who share my love of history and concern about community has been enriching.”

Dr. Greene is a rising star, and we are grateful that he is sharing his time and talent with us. He teaches history at Claflin University in Orangeburg, and has published more than 350 articles. Most recently, he co-edited the just-published book Invisible No More documenting the experiences of African Americans at USC over its 218-year history.

Dr. Bernie Gallman, who took the class two years in a row, said, “As the lies and the assault on truth continue, the Modjeska School is a breath of fresh air. It provides a correction of the lies that have been told in schools for generations, as well as a firewall against the lies being legislated today. Everyone should take this course.”

Other students offered comments about the school and how it strengthened their understanding of South Carolina and their capacity as advocates, citizens, and parents.

James Deweese, a retired pharmacist who graduated last year and has signed up for the 2022 session, said, “The Modjeska School made me a better man.”

His classmate Michael Moton will also repeat the course this spring. “My experience with the Modjeska School was both frustrating and exciting. Frustrating to know that we have been fighting for basic rights for too long, but exciting to know that people are there to guide the old and new alike.”

2017 graduate Sara Williams said, “The Modjeska School taught me things I never would have known but need to know to be a whole human. I am so glad to know about SC’s powerful women from the Grimke sisters to Harriet Hancock to Modjeska herself.”

Debbie Billings, who completed the course last year, said, “Thank you for coordinating a program that expanded and deepened my knowledge about where I live and who I am. Most importantly, I’ve been able to integrate a new depth of analysis into my teaching, activism, and everyday conversations.”

LaKisha M. Wheeler also graduated last year. “It was amazing to learn about Modjeska Simkins and the huge role she played in advocating for Black people,” she said. “I absolutely loved getting on Zoom every Monday and learning about where I was born and raised, and the issues Black people still struggle with today. Everything I learned I was able to talk to my children about. Thank you.”

Kyle Criminger, who graduated in 2015, said, “The Modjeska School took us on a haunted, enthralling trek through South Carolina’s stolen and denied history, giving me a long view and a wide perspective on the problems here. The work I am doing with fellow graduates allows us to carry out a shared commitment to the values and principles that South Carolinians like Modjeska Simkins herself have held and lived by. The school is a complete program and national model for community organizing.”

Melanie McGehee said, “Honestly, of the times I’ve left somewhere with a certificate, this is the one I’m most proud of.” She graduated in 2019 along with her 14-year-old son Ian McGehee.

Rev. Dr. Tom Summers, a retired United Methodist minister and a 2015 graduate, said, “I’ve been involved with the SC Progressive Network since its beginning, and this school is indeed one of the best products in their 26 years of fine work. For anyone interested in the historical and current struggle for racial conciliation in our state, I strongly recommend that they attend this unique school. I also urge every congregation to sponsor a student.”

If you or your organization wishes to sponsor a student or contribute to a scholarship fund, email modjeskaschool@scpronet.com or all 803-808-3384. The SC Progressive Network Education Fund’s annual financial reports are available at guidestar.org.

For more on the school, class schedule, or to fill out an application, see ModjeskaSchool.com. Tuition may be paid in monthly installments. Some needs-based scholarships available. Deadline to apply is Feb. 16.