Ujima Journey offers lessons in Black history
For nearly three decades, Ujima Journey of the Capital District has brought Black children from the Albany area to sites like Harriet Tubman’s home in Auburn and the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial in Washington D.C.
“Not enough of our story is told, especially in public schools,” Ujima Journey president Aaron Carter said, adding that it’s an opportunity to “take it in our hands to tell our own story.”
The nonprofit held an informational meeting for interested students and their parents Saturday at the Washington Avenue branch of the Albany Public Library. This year’s trip is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 10, to Sunday, Aug. 13, with planned stops at The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in New York City and several sites in Washington D.C. such as the African American Civil War Memorial Museum. There will also be a stop solely for some fun at Six Flags, Carter said.
Ujima Journey of the Capital District was founded in 1995 by Carter, treasurer Brenda Parson and Sandra and Sam Cook, Carter said.
It typically hosts around 30 students ages 6 to 14 as well as around 20 adult chaperons. The trip is funded by families as well as fundraisers such as ad sales and car washes. That’s especially important this year as prices for gas and other products have spiked, Carter said. A fundraiser will also be held at the annual Reunion and Awards ceremony from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 15, at Youth FX in Albany. Tickets are $15 or $20 at the door.
Those interested in attending the fundraiser, participating in Ujima Journey or donating can email ujimajourney@gmail.com or contact Carter at 518-253-1711. Donations can also be made online or by mail to Ujima Journey Inc. of the Capital District, P.O. Box 1874. Albany, N.Y. 12201.