Clark Helped Change the Face of America

I came of age in a segregated school in Delaware during the time of Brown vs. Board of Education. Our sensitive, caring teachers made their students aware of Dr. Kenneth Clark’s significant studies. My understanding and appreciation of the man and his work grew as I matured. Clark’s passing and his impact on the course of American history warranted suspending today’s planned lessons. With enough copies of your newspaper for each student, we read and discussed the well-written and inclusive obituary (May 3).

To know that my students will graduate with an awareness of his immeasurable contribution to society fulfills a personal mandate. Finally, in response to Clark’s resignation, “My life has been a series of glorious defeats.” Not by any stretch of the imagination, dear sir. The world is a better place because of your vision and your commitment.

Kenneth W. Livingston

Director, Speech and Debate

Crenshaw High School

Los Angeles