News

September 9, 2025
Amistad Staff- Britt Jordan

Amistad Commission 2025 Summer Institute Highlights

The Amistad Commission’s 2025 Summer Institute, held August 4–7 at Stockton University in Atlantic City, was an overwhelming success. Guided by the theme Moving Forward/Preserving Our Past: Revolution, Reaction, and Reform, the Institute brought together educators, students, and community partners in a powerful exchange of ideas, strategies, and resources to advance the Amistad mandate.

Transformative Learning and Impactful Sessions

Educators engaged in plenaries, keynote addresses, and track sessions that provided practical tools for classroom implementation. Highlights included Tim Wise’s opening keynote, which set a compelling tone for the week and a virtual tour of historical sites in Ghana, led by a team of guides in Ghana and Eric Jones of Oiada International.

One participant shared, “The Summer Institute was wonderful, and I hope to return year after year…” Another remarked, “The presenters and information exceeded my expectations and engaged me throughout.” These reflections underscore the Institute’s dual focus on inspiration and actionable takeaways.

Celebrating Student Leadership and Excellence

The Institute honored winners of the Amistad Special Project Awards, whose National History Day projects highlighted significant contributions of African Americans to U.S. history. Their scholarship and poise left a lasting impression on the educators and policymakers present.

We thank the following students for their brilliant work and their teachers for their guidance:

Junior Division (Middle School)

• Student: Yaseen Elagamy
• Project: “Shooting Wars in the Streets:” The Historical Rights and Responsibilities of the Newark Riots of 1967
• Teacher: Melissa Di Petro and Miguel Rodriguez
  

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• Students: Audrey Ren, Laurel Ngu, Madelynn Young
• Project: Voiceless in Mississippi: The Summer of 1964 That Realigned American Democracy
• Teacher: Christy Marella
  

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• Students: Hadydja Kouanda, Marlena Matthews, Aniveah Coleman, Jaelynn Valmyr, and Adrianna Henry
• Project: Unraveling the Scarves of Oppression: The Tignon Laws
• Teacher: Tracey Prince & Sabeen Mateen
  

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Senior Division (High School)

• Students: Priyanka Patel and Dhiren Holland
• Project: A Blueprint for Equality: How New Jersey Shaped the National Civil Rights Movement
• Teacher: Judith Vihonski
  

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• Student: Jahmaiah Green
• Project: Haile Selassie: The Lion’s Roar for Rights and Responsibilities
• Teacher: Theresa Maughan
  

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• Student: Bella Mohan
• Project: Billie Holiday: Advocating for Civil Rights Through the Influence of Music
• Teacher: Jenn Fraunberger

Student Panel and Youth Activism

A highlight of this year’s Institute was the Student Panel, featuring Ahkirah Ali, Amirah Williams, Nazuri Crouch, Seyvion Williams, and Jailen Scott of the Atlantic County NAACP Youth Council. Their presence and honesty left a lasting impression on everyone in the room. They spoke not only about what it means to be young leaders, but also about how they are learning to use their voices to uplift their peers and strengthen their communities. From sharing lessons gained through NAACP Student Conventions to reflecting on how these experiences are shaping their understanding of the world, the students reminded us that leadership begins with awareness, courage, and a commitment to making a difference. Their words inspired us to see the future through their eyes, full of purpose, possibility, and determination to play their part in building a better tomorrow.

Academic Excellence

We also recognized the legacy of Thomas May through the presentation of the Thomas May Scholarship, made possible by the generosity and vision of the May family. This award ensures that the commitment to educational excellence and community service continues to uplift new generations of learners. Congratulations to Kyra Campbell, Annia Cloud, and Baron Davis, and best wishes in your studies.

Showcasing Innovation: The Virtual Landmark Project

The New Jersey Amistad Commission proudly showcased a Virtual Landmark Project for students to display their academic skills in Social Studies, History, and Digital Media Communications. Designed to highlight New Jersey’s African American landmarks and hidden treasures, the project allows educators and students to create immersive virtual tours that bring history to life.

This year, students from the Atlantic County Institute of Technology (ACIT) presented their video project, A Journey Through Atlantic City, during the Summer Curriculum Institute in the Fannie Lou Hamer Room at Stockton University. The setting could not have been more fitting. This year’s Institute was held in Atlantic City, the very city their project highlighted, and the presentation took place in the room honoring Fannie Lou Hamer, whose advocacy on voting rights and equality left a powerful mark on Atlantic City decades ago.

This alignment made their presentation one of the highlights of the Institute. It created a living connection between past and present. The project not only underscored the significance of Atlantic City within broader U.S. history but also showcased how students can bring history forward through digital storytelling. The virtual tour allows future educators and students to experience Atlantic City’s historic African American landmarks through a field trip without ever leaving the classroom.

On behalf of the Commission, we extend our sincere gratitude to the staff, Gabe Staino and Anthony Hurst and students, Noah Simon, Reese McKnight, Hanna Kuniewicz, Jessica Ebong, and Scott Martin for their extraordinary work and diligence. We look forward to more exciting videos that showcase African American landmarks across New Jersey.

Honoring Exemplary Educators and Leaders

The Amistad Commission presented its Exemplary Teacher Awards, honoring New Jersey teachers who are committed to advancing student knowledge of African American history.

• Elementary Award: Joy Burnett, Redwood Elementary School, West Orange Public Schools
  Ms. Burnett is a distinguished educator whose career exemplifies excellence in infusing diverse perspectives into the classroom. Her work continues to model how elementary teachers can thoughtfully and effectively integrate African American history across instruction.
• Secondary Award: Anisha Kakar, Franklin High School, Franklin Township Public Schools
  Ms. Kakar is an exemplary educator whose outstanding work in teaching Race, Gender, and Equity and AP African American Studies provides a strong model for how New Jersey educators can effectively meet the Amistad mandate.

The William Payne Administrator of the Year Award was presented to Danielle Montague, Principal of Dr. Henry H. Davis Family School in Camden, NJ. This honor recognizes administrators who demonstrate leadership in supporting staff with the resources and oversight needed to effectively implement the Amistad Law.

Principal Montague has served the Camden City School District since 1994 in roles ranging from paraprofessional to Principal. A graduate of Elizabeth City State University, a Historically Black University, and Walden University, she is the definition of a supportive administrator. She encourages innovation and achievement in both students and staff. Under her leadership, Dr. Henry H. Davis Family School became the first school to participate in the NJ African American History initiative, exemplifying the brilliant work she and her educators are committed to each day.

A Community of Educators Moving Forward

Across four days, participants described the experience as “an opportunity to connect with like-minded educators” and “an invaluable framework for implementing the Amistad legislation in schools.” From small-group track sessions to plenaries on revolution, resistance, and reform, the Institute affirmed its role as both a professional learning hub and a community of shared purpose.

As we look toward the 2026 Summer Institute at Kean University, we carry forward the momentum, insight, and renewed commitment that defined this year’s gathering. Together, we remain steadfast in advancing a more inclusive and accurate telling of our nation’s history.

September 21, 2025

Amistad Staff- A’ndrea Bair

“The years have passed by very quickly, and we are still working to preserve our history.  Lawnside was incorporated in 1926,” according to Ms. Linda Shockley, President of the Lawnside Historical Society.  The Peter Mott House is a museum and renovated station along the Underground Railroad, the clandestine network to freedom for fugitives in the 19th century. The Lawnside Historical Society was founded and formed to protect the legacy of Peter and Elizabeth Mott and their home as part of the Underground Railroad network.  The house was restored for use as a museum of the Underground Railroad and of Lawnside, the only historically African American incorporated municipality in the northern United States. Grants from state and national agencies assisted in the restoration. The Peter Mott House is listed on the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places. It has been open to the public since October 2001 and is operated by the Lawnside Historical Society.

Among those honored were Ms. Yolanda Romero, Ms. Michiko Quinones, Mr. David Platt and Mr. Thomas Flack.  Each was honored for their individual contributions to the preservation of historical landmarks and documents in Lawnside’s history.   A highlight of the afternoon was Actress, Millicent Sparks.  She interpreted the legendary Harriet Tubman.  She transformed into character and left the audience speechless during her entire performance.  At the end of her performance, she allowed the audience to ask questions regarding “her” life as Harriet Tubman.  She stayed fully in character to answer all of the questions and bestowed a powerful message to the youth in attendance of the importance of education and determination.

September 13, 2025

Amistad Staff- A’ndrea Bair

On Saturday, September 13, 2025, the Underground Railroad Museum of Burlington County hosted their Annual African Diaspora Festival.  Many cultures from West Africa, Trinidad, Haiti, Brazil and others were represented during this exciting event.  Vistors were delighted with performances by Djembe Drummer- Jeff Hebron, Orator- Amada McCarthy, Slim DaWit/ Conscious Hip Hop Spoken Word, Black Boys Mak’n Noise- Story Telling Troupe, Philly Fica Angola Capoeira, Rikky Robley- Steel Pannist, and Tunde Success.  All gave wonderful cultural performances that delighted the audience.  In addition to the main stage performances, there were also Genealogy Sessions by Shamele Jordan, MIA- Free Flow Line Dancing, Stilt Walkers and Self-Guided Museum Tours.

Museum guests were transported in time from Africa to America.  There were many artifacts and displays for guests to view.  From the original shackles used on slave ships to clothing, pictures, and historical items, the Underground Railroad Museum had many fascinating items to give participants an immersive experience.  There were separate buildings for guests to travel through as they explored the original grounds.  History was brought alive for many to witness.

June 19, 2025
Amistad Staff- Britt Jordan & A’ndrea Bair

What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth is a holiday that began in 1866 to commemorate the day Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned that slavery had ended. This occurred several years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which declared that all enslaved people living in Confederate territory were free.

On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston to officially deliver the news. In General Order No. 3, he proclaimed:

“The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor…”

The delay in delivering this announcement was largely due to the ongoing Civil War, the geographical isolation of Texas, and the resistance of slaveholders who sought to maintain the institution of slavery for as long as possible.

Following their official emancipation, Black Galvestonians took the opportunity to celebrate. One of the earliest documented Juneteenth observances comes from a letter written to the Freedmen’s Bureau in Texas, requesting 10 to 15 Bibles and books to mark the anniversary. The letter also describes singing freedom songs and honoring children who were excelling in school.

Juneteenth became an official federal holiday in 2021 when it was signed into law by President Joseph R. Biden. Black Texans have been celebrating this occasion for well over a century, with parades, music, storytelling, contests, and more.

Since Juneteenth was made a federal holiday, celebrations and educational programming have expanded across the country to highlight the resilience and achievements of African Americans. Here in New Jersey, the Underground Railroad Museum of Burlington County has embraced this legacy through its event, “Experience of a Lifetime: A Juneteenth Celebration.” This is one example of several Juneteenth celebrations occurring in our great state of New Jersey. 

The celebration took place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, across two historic sites in Burlington County: Rancocas State Park, formerly the Powhatan Indian Reservation, and Timbuctoo in Westampton, one of several antebellum free Black settlements in New Jersey.

Juneteenth is celebrated annually on June 19 to honor the end of slavery in the United States and the ongoing legacy of African American strength, resilience, and cultural contributions.

Sources:

National Archives. “Juneteenth: The Emancipation Proclamation Reaches Texas.”
https://www.archives.gov/news/articles/juneteenth-original-document

National Museum of African American History and Culture. “Freedmen’s Bureau Record Requesting Bibles and Books for Juneteenth Celebration.”
https://nmaahc.si.edu/freedmens-bureau/record/fbs-1662423774659-1662425957007-0

National Museum of African American History and Culture. “The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth.”
https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/historical-legacy-juneteenth

Historic Underground Railroad Reenactment Museum of Burlington County. “HUGRRMBC – Celebrating the Journey to Freedom.”
https://hugrrmbc.org/

May 23, 2025

Amistad Staff- A’ndrea Bair

Kentucky basketball legend Valerie Still, has once again proven that her legacy continues further than her legendary playing days. The former Wildcat star and WNBA standout officially opened the Valerie Still Youth Empowerment Zone in Camden County, New Jersey on Friday, May 23, 2025.  The Youth Empowerment Zone (YEZ) named in her honor is located in Clementon, New Jersey.  Ms. Still dedicated the playground as a milestone in her continued commitment to uplifting young people through sports and community initiatives.

The playground courts were designed courtesy of the Mr. Shelton “Hawk” Hawkins, a descendant of Harriet Tubman.  Mr. Hawkins and Ms. Still are carrying on the Underground Railroad legacy of Harriet Tubman and William Still on the playground.  Ms. Still noted, “The playground is a fun exciting endeavor that will empower, unite and inspire all to follow the stars and live a life of freedom and unlimited possibility. The basketball courts and pickleball courts were created for young and old, rich and poor, girls and boys, men and women and people of all faiths to come together… the YEZ is about living your dream!”

The Youth Empowerment Zone plans to host regular basketball camps, college preparation seminars, and community service events to further strengthen ties with local schools and families. The Youth Empowerment Zone will feature sports training, academic support, after-school tutoring, mentorship and life skills development for underserved youth in Camden County. Future playgrounds will be opening in Camden, New Jersey and Lexington, Kentucky.

March 22, 2025

Amistad Staff- Britt Jordan

On March 22nd, the New Jersey Italian Heritage Commission, in partnership with the Amistad Commission, hosted a captivating event, “Jazz Italian Style” exploring the profound impact of jazz on both Italy and Italian American cultural production. The event featured a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Maestro Joseph Pucciatti, with esteemed panelists Vincent Pelote, a Senior Archivist and Digital Preservation Strategist at the Rutgers Institute of Jazz, and William Friedwald, a renowned jazz critic and author. Together, they delved into the rich history of jazz music and its far-reaching influence on Italian musicians.

One of the key insights shared during the discussion was the historical connection between jazz, an African American music genre, and Italian musicians. This cultural exchange began as early as the 19th century, when Sicilian immigrants traveled to New Orleans via the Palermo-New Orleans route. As they integrated into the city, they encountered African American culture, leading to a significant cultural exchange. The panelists noted how jazz, carried by African American musicians traveling through Europe during WWI, made its way to Italy. By the 1930s, it had taken Italy’s music scene by storm, influencing generations of Italian musicians. Interestingly, the panelists also pointed out that even Benito Mussolini’s son was a fan of jazz, illustrating the genre’s widespread appeal.

Adding to the event’s vibrancy was a performance by Governor Livingston High School’s Jazz Band, led by Josef Ellis and Nicholas O’Sullivan. Selected from a pool of talented applicants, the band’s performance wowed the audience with a medley of jazz tunes, showcasing their impressive skill and passion for the genre. Their outstanding performance earned several standing ovations, underscoring the incredible work educators are doing in New Jersey to incorporate African American cultural contributions into their curricula.

This event beautifully highlighted the interconnectedness of New Jersey’s diverse cultural communities and the powerful collaboration between the Italian Heritage and Amistad Commissions. It served as a testament to how shared cultural experiences, like the influence of jazz, can bring communities together.

We would like to send a special thank you to Italian Heritage Commission Executive Director, Margaret Fontana, Chairman Emeritus Robert J. DiBiase, Chairman Vincent Maione, and Chair of the Curriculum Committee Dr. Gilda Rorro Baldassari.

February 19, 2025

Amistad Staff- Britt Jordan

On February 19, 2025, the Amistad Commission made a visit to Dr. Henry Davis Elementary School in Camden, where they joined the students and staff for an unforgettable African American History Day celebration. Over 60 enthusiastic fourth and fifth-grade students showcased their incredible research projects, shining a spotlight on African American trailblazers with deep ties to New Jersey and their game-changing contributions to society.

Leading up to this momentous event, teachers empowered students with vital skills in research, source evaluation, writing, and bibliography creation. Students tapped into their creativity to transform their findings into stunning posters, eye-catching dioramas, and captivating performances. They delved into the legacies of legends like Florence Spearing Randolph, Paul Robeson, and E. Frederic Morrow, presenting their projects with passion, confidence, and pride.

The students didn’t just present their findings, they also shared insights into their research journey, the value of teamwork, and the unforgettable lessons they learned along the way. Judges were amazed by the depth of knowledge, artistic ingenuity, and polished presentation skills displayed by the young scholars. The dedication of the teachers shone through, as they expertly prepared students to excel and present to such an esteemed audience.

Every student was celebrated for their hard work and participation, with six outstanding students receiving “Excellence Awards” for their exceptional projects.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who attended to review the projects and offer their support. A special shout-out to Principal Danielle Montague and Teacher Leaders Cynthia Martinez and Neysha Parker, whose tireless efforts made this event a resounding success and continue to inspire both staff and students at Dr. Henry Davis Elementary School.