October 21st 2008 Vermont Views–Courtesy of Guest Blogger, Curtis Atkinson
Vermont is a beautiful state with scenic views of lush foliage that has already began to changes in shades of gold and red. The weather was chilly and it rained during most of my stay there, but the rain could not dampen my spirit, nor deter me from meeting with one of the great minds of the area. Traci L. Griffith is an Associate Professor of Journalism and Mass Communications at St. Michael’s College in Colchester, VT. She is the one of two African-American faculty members at the Catholic Liberal Arts College. Ms. Griffith is an attorney and member of the Associated Press. She is passionate about the media’s role in the political process.
Ms. Griffith graciously agreed to meet with me in her “humble” office prior to the start of her afternoon class. Our meeting was brief, but meaningful. She spoke of the rich culture of Vermont. I must admit that I was skeptical that Vermont had any cultural offerings for people of color, but Ms. Griffith shared information related to the African refugee population clustered in certain parts of the region. She offered contacts to link with that population as well as a number of upwardly mobile people of color who were making a difference in the community. I was pleasantly surprised that Vermont had more to offer than delicious maple syrup and the finest apple orchards in the region.
Ms. Griffith stated that her students are energized about the political process and have done some advocacy work in the area with an emphasis on bordering New Hampshire . She spoke of Vermont ’s small town dynamics and that some political leaders have routine town hall meetings where citizens have an opportunity to voice their concerns. Ms. Griffith feels this is what is missing from most political machines: the ability to connect with the constituents on a personal level.
Traci Griffith remains connected to her community and network of legal and political people of color who are passionate about preserving the values near and dear to most Americans. She spoke fondly about the great time she had at the recent Congressional Black Caucus sessions in Washington, DC and that simply attending this annual event renews her spirit and motivation to continue the fight. Traci Griffith is amongst the modest group of educated, professional African-American women who have not lost sight of the struggles that many people of color experience on a daily basis. She ops to use her professional and social network as well as her role in the lives of young students as weapons in the plight of oppression. This warrior will not be stifled.
Click below to view Traci’s interview:
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