CAIS

It was great to simply to take a break, consider past events, and sit down together for a meal. Here are a few shots:

We dined to the music and jazzy vocals of the Anais St. John Trio. Wonderful.

Later, Reza Aslan talked about the continued misperceptions and political and social implications of being a Muslim in the world, and in the U.S. in particular. I plan to pick up a copy of his book, No God But God; The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam.

(Reza Aslan)

One touching moment was when Gene Batiste, VP Leadership Education and Diversity, brought his father and mother up on stage.

(Gertrude B. Batiste, Gilbert Academy, Class of '48)

Gertrude B. Batiste spoke with eloquence and conviction about her experience at Gilbert Academy, the first independent school for African Americans, in New Orleans. She described some of her experiences there, and how meaningful it was to have such an institution at which African Americans could thrive, both academically and socially. She described the controversy when the annual tuition shot up from $2.50 to $3.50. Can you imagine? 

Special thanks to Gene and his incredible team for making PoCC possible, year after year. 

To Mrs. Batiste: thank you for sharing some of your experiences with us, and for making Gene possible.