In St. Louis Park, the celebration of Black History Month isn't just about looking back; it's about seeing the vibrant threads that connect history to the present, notably featuring individuals who are shaping today's community. Among them, Dr. Lee-Ann Stephens, an educator with over three decades of experience and the Minnesota Teacher of the Year in 2006, stands out for her commitment to fostering culturally relevant literacy in St. Louis Park Public Schools. According to the City of St. Louis Park bulletin, her inspiration draws from the teachings of Asa Grant Hilliard III, whose ethos was that there's genius within every child and whose love for teaching and African history resonates in Stephens' work.
Also showcased is Maurice Smith Jr., a police officer with St. Louis Park for seven years, known for his dedication to bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community as a former school resource officer, he now contributes his sociological insights on patrol during the day shift; and he credits Malcolm X's call for self-love and education as a key influence, noting Malcolm X's later advocacy for unity across racial divides, with "a spirit of unity and brotherhood," as Smith told the City of St. Louis Park bulletin.
These personal testaments exemplify the city's broader effort to honor the contributions of Black and African American employees within their parks and school system—not just as figures of a distant past but as living embodiments of history's legacy and forward march. Residents can find posters featuring these influential locals in city park buildings, each accompanied by a QR code to delve deeper into their stories and impact.
The stories shared by individuals like Stephens and Smith are central to the city's recognition of Black History Month, providing a human connection and serving as a testament to the diverse fabric that weaves the community together, as seen in the parks where these profiles are currently on display. As the month unfolds, the city continues to spotlight its employees via social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram (@stlouispark) and via GovDelivery emails on Mondays and the first three Wednesdays of February, ensuring that the lessons, struggles, and accomplishments of the Black community in St. Louis Park remain at the forefront of collective consciousness.
