Graduation message
Bloomfield High grads encouraged to dream big, believe in themselves
Camryn Johnson, the valedictorian of Bloomfield High School, told her fellow classmates that while life is often unfair, especially for “young men and women of color,” they are far more capable than what society may lead them to believe.
NEW BRITAIN — Looking out at her peers from the podium — a sea of caps decorated with glitter, flowers and various celebratory slogans, and all dressed in bright cerulean gowns — the valedictorian of Bloomfield High School told her fellow classmates that while life is often unfair, especially for “young men and women of color,” they are far more capable than what society may lead them to believe.
“Society tells us that we can’t do it, and it is our job to tell society, ‘I don’t know who you’re chatting to, but it most certainly isn’t me,’ ” said Camryn Johnson on Tuesday evening. “We know we can do it.”
Throughout the commencement ceremony for Bloomfield’s 127 graduates, students and staff alike weaved together a similar message upon taking the stage of Central Connecticut State University’s Welte Auditorium: while many may doubt them, or discourage them from pursuing their goals, they are capable of “excellence.”
The school has a total minority enrollment rate of 99 percent, and almost 50 percent are economically disadvantaged, according to U.S. News & World Report data.
“Bloomfield is a special place. It’s a place where excellence is expected and celebrated,” James Thompson, superintendent of schools, said to the crowd. “As you embark upon your individual journeys, please remember to pursue excellence in all things and to celebrate it.”
Thompson rattled off the names of various colleges the 99th graduating class will be attending — among them UConn, Georgetown University and the University of Hartford — and also acknowledged those contemplating military enlistment and immediate employment.
Johnson will enter UConn this fall as a first-generation college student, and said she plans on majoring in English to help her achieve her goal of becoming a publisher. She cited her mom as being her most
fervent supporter — and inspiration.
“My brother and I are both first-gen students, and it means a lot that we’re able to take this step and that we’re able to afford to show them [their parents] that we came here to this country for a reason,” she said. “We’re taking advantage of that opportunity, and we’re definitely appreciating [their] efforts.”
While delivering her valedictory address, Johnson reminded the graduates that even though many circumstances will often be beyond their control — and one can only direct their own reaction, not those around them — it’s important to appreciate those who have remained constant fixtures in their young adult lives.
“Hold on to them and hold on tight because it is at junctures like this in life that bring to light just how much having people in your world that you love and that love you, makes it so bright,” she said.
On a similar note as Johnson, salutatorian Chaddane Williams said through “thick and thin,” like people telling the class they “would fail,” the graduates had overcome the many barriers in their way.
“Come back to Bloomfield and tell your story,” said Williams, in a message to his classmates. “Tell what you’ve accomplished, all the great things you’ve done, and just come back and celebrate.”
Williams, like Johnson, will be attending UConn in the fall.
Antanae Hodges, president of the class, recalled the words of Steve Jobs and teachings of W.E.B. Dubois during her speech — a means of urging those around her to be confident in themselves, and to not judge others for venturing down a different path.
“Steve Jobs once said, ‘Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice,’ ” Hodges said. “‘And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become.’ ”
She added: “W.E.B. Dubois had this ideology about ‘double-consciousness,’ and this ideology basically described the internal conflict experienced by subordinated groups in an oppressive society … The reason for this internal phenomena is because of all these different opinions in our ear.”
In light of all these differing opinions, Hodges encouraged her peers to move away from trying so desperately to please others, and to fit into stereotypical ideals, and to instead start living for themselves.
“Be the actress, the dancer or the social activist and the photographer or teacher, musician, scientist — or whatever you desire,” she said. “And don’t let anyone encourage you to put out your light because we are all destined for greatness and will leave this world better than what we found it.”