City Councilman Elect Dr. Yusef Salaam Speaks with Léman High Schoolers

December 21, 2023

On Monday, December 12th, City Councilman Elect Dr. Yusef Salaam visited 1 Morris Street. Before speaking with students in Grades 9-12, Dr. Salaam, alongside his Campaign Manager Jordan Wright ‘13, sat down with members of Léman’s Black Student Union (BSU) for a meeting in which students asked questions about ways they could best serve as leaders both within and outside of the Léman community. 

Following his visit with the BSU, Dr. Salaam gave an inspirational presentation in the Morris Street Theater, during which he spoke on the importance of perseverance, of contributing to the greater good of society, and of seeing oneself through a revolutionary lens as we all work towards creating a better world. He also spoke on the personal and historical significance of his role as the representative of New York City’s 9th City Council District in central Harlem, which he was elected to earlier this year. 

After his presentation, Dr. Salaam took part in two Q&As moderated respectively by BSU President, Aida S-N ‘24 and Vice President, Amy D. ‘26, during which he answered questions about the dissection of wrongful convictions through film and television, ways in which we can all combat injustice, and more.

The visit was organized by English Teacher Emily Khan (who had previously used the 2019 limited series “When They See Us” as a part of her curriculum), Upper School Counselor JD Fuller, and DEIJ Directory Lakiya Burrell. 

Many thanks to Dr. Salaam for speaking with our community.