Student Government’s “What Matters to U” speaker series returns on Oct. 8 at 6 p.m., hosting a virtual discussion with Sybrina Fulton, political activist and mother of the late Trayvon Martin.
The event will center on the topics of civil rights activism and being an agent of social change. Osamudia James, professor of law and Dean’s Distinguished Scholar at the University of Miami Law School, will moderate the discussion alongside Abigail Adeleke, president of Student Government.
“I am beyond excited about the discussion and learning how she has overcome obstacle after obstacle and ultimately her plan for racial justice in the U.S.,” Adeleke shared. “I am excited for the wisdom that she will impart on us.”
Following the violent death of her son in 2012, Fulton fully committed to transforming her tragedy into social change and now dedicates her life to political activism. A champion of building better, safe communities for all, Fulton established the Trayvon Martin Foundation in an effort to bring awareness to ending senseless gun violence, strengthening families through holistic support and mentorship.
She now lends her voice to speak against violence towards children and, in the process, has become an enduring role model to activists and people across the country. Most importantly, as a mother, she encourages audiences to educate children about civil rights and the importance of feeling mobilized in an ever-changing society.
Amid protests for social change in the wake of the death of George Floyd and the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, Adeleke highlighted the importance of What Matters to U’s discussion with Fulton in this particular moment.
“I am incredibly appreciative of What Matters to U for organizing such an influential and timely speaker for our nation's current climate,” Adeleke added.
Spencer Schwartz, chair of the What Matters to U Planning Agency, says the agency’s decision to invite Fulton to participate in this speaker series was a concerted effort to discuss issues of social justice and the Black Lives Matter movement, keeping true to their mission to provide students with thought-provoking speakers.
“As an agency, we encourage students to begin conversations that they might not often have in the classroom. We want to provoke discourse and promote a culture of belonging,” Schwartz shared.
This event is free and open to all members of the University of Miami community. For more information on how to tune in, visit sg.miami.edu/wmtu.
