February 23, 2011

Minnesota senator and former St. Paul police chief John Harrington recently visited TiZA to speak at the school’s annual Black History Month event.

Addressing an audience of middle- and high-school students, Sen. Harrington described the accomplishments of minority activists in Minnesota and other states. He reminded students of the hard work and effort needed to promote civil rights and bring about a free democracy.

“It’s very important that we expose our students to what these issues mean from the people who understand them,” said Magdy Rabeaa, assistant campus director at TiZA’s Inver Grove Heights campus.   

“The majority of our students are immigrants, and a large number of them are from Africa,” said Rabeaa. “Black History Month helps them understand their place in history. It is very important for our mission of self-reflective education at TiZA.”

Sen. Harrington also discussed his initiatives to reduce gang violence and domestic abuse while serving as police chief, and urged students to consider careers in police work and in public policy.

Black History Month recognizes the accomplishments and contributions of African Americans to our country’s history. Students are introduced to important African American leaders, activists, artists, writers, entrepreneurs, and significant historical figures who have impacted the way we live and think today.

Sen. Harrington earned his BA at Dartmouth College and MA at the University of St. Thomas. He serves on the education, judiciary and public safety committee and the local government and elections committee in the Minnesota Senate.