Progressive Preservation Talk: Granville Lee Edition

This Progressive Preservation Talk with Michael Cartwright and Kevin Jones will feature research and information about Columbus-local historic figure Granville Lee. The talk will feature retired University of Indianapolis Vice President Michael G. Cartwright and Indiana University Columbus Professor Kevin Jones who will narrate what took place before, during, and immediately following the Columbus High School commencement at the Crump Theatre on May 28, 1901. This landmark occasion has been remembered (somewhat inaccurately) as the occasion when the first African American [male], Granville Lee, graduated.

Although stories of the 1901 commencement have circulated for the past 125 years, this event will bring it into sharper focus by placing it in the context of American civic struggles to uphold the values of equality and independence. On this occasion, the legal doctrine of “separate but equal” disrupted the Columbus community’s quest for excellence in public education. In the process, the memory of Granville Lee’s significance has been blurred.

The event is produced in partnership with Black History Month Columbus and will take place at The Crump Theatre (425 3rd Street). The evening will begin with a reception at 6:15 p.m. with light refreshments provided by Bespoke Events + Experiences. The talk will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will include time for feedback from those in attendance.