Remembering Black History Month

Thanks to Ms. Sylvia Herrera, several students were able to recognize the value of Black History by hearing from one of our own local members of the African-American community.

Councilwoman Wanda Williams of Suisun City came to the Armijo High School Library and spoke with a group of students during 3rd period on Friday, February 15. She spoke about her childhood, how she is doing now, and how she came to be the type of woman she is. The ¨audience¨ was filled by sophomores and juniors who were highly interested in what she was saying.

Ms. Williams grew up in Richmond and started working at the age of 15. Her mother had gotten a divorce around that time and her family was pretty poor, so working was her best bet.

Her career in politics started early. As a high school student, Ms. Williams had run for student government and won, although she didn’t see serving in political office as her future at that time. She also didn’t completely commit herself to her education until recently. She is currently enrolled at UC Davis, majoring in African-American studies. Because she did not pay close attention in high school, Ms. Williams admitted that she takes remedial courses. She also admitted that there is no problem with that, as she is still moving forward with her education.

Now that she is serving as a member of the Suisun City Council, she has seen the benefit to being in public office. She shared that she wants to go higher, maybe even run for a California State office.

Ms. Williams definitely gave the students in attendance some good words: “Life will have ups and downs, let it make you stronger.”