Washington, DC is proud to have ties to two great African Americans who were dedicated to the education and advancement of their race. Dr. E.B. Henderson, who is considered the “Grandfather of Black Basketball”, was said to have written over 3,000 letters to newspapers advocating for civil rights.  Benjamin Banneker, who is credited as one of the surveyors of the District of Columbia and laying the boundary stones, wrote a letter to the then U.S. Secretary of State, Thomas Jefferson advocating for justice of African Americans and opposing slavery.   

Learn more about Dr. E.B. Henderson

Learn more about Benjamin Banneker

To celebrate and honor their legacies, students were to select a community leader/organization and write an essay between 350-500 words advocating for their cause/mission and its importance in their life.