George Washington Carver, a prominent African-American scientist and educator in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, demonstrated remarkable grace and resilience in the face of racial injustice during his lifetime. Despite living in a deeply segregated and racially discriminatory era, Carver remained committed to his work and principles, advocating for positive change through peaceful means. This is the legacy that we embody here today in the Carver community.

His dedication to education and empowerment characterized Carver's approach to addressing racial injustice. He believed that knowledge and self-improvement were critical to dismantling racial barriers. He focused on providing educational opportunities to African-American students and farmers, emphasizing the importance of education as a tool for progress.

Throughout his career, Carver's work at the Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University) emphasized practical skills and sustainable farming techniques. He sought to uplift Black communities in the South by teaching them to cultivate their land effectively, fostering economic independence, and reducing dependence on the discriminatory sharecropping system.

Carver's commitment to peaceful change also extended to his interactions with others. He advocated for racial harmony and understanding, believing that racial tensions could be mitigated through dialogue and cooperation. He actively engaged with both Black and white communities, demonstrating the power of collaboration to overcome prejudice.

In essence, George Washington Carver's peaceful approach to addressing racial injustice, as our approach is today, was rooted in education, economic empowerment, and a belief in the potential for positive change through dialogue and cooperation. His legacy inspires all of us to work towards a more just and equitable society.