Gainesville, FL (EEF News)— This summer, scholars from The Education Equalizer Foundation embarked on a powerful journey through Florida’s hidden history as participants in the Teach the Truth Tour led by acclaimed historian and civil rights advocate Dr. Marvin Dunn.
Dr. Dunn, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at Florida International University and author of A History of Florida Through Black Eyes, created the Teach the Truth Tour to bring attention to the racial violence and systemic oppression that has been buried—literally and figuratively—throughout the state. Through site visits and storytelling, he ensures that the next generation knows the truth of what happened in places like Rosewood and Ocoee, and why it still matters today.
For our scholars, the experience was transformational.
Kayshell Tubbs shared:
“It started a fire in me… not just about the evilness in this country, but even in my own state. I saw white graves that were carefully kept, and then I looked over at the Black bodies burned in mass graves. That fire burned with passion and rage—because this is not being told in schools. Somebody needs to know. Everybody needs to know. Especially what happened to Willie James. That broke my heart. What if that was my little brother or cousin?”
Deanglo Willis reflected:
“I already knew about Rosewood from the movies, but seeing it in real life added a new layer of depth and meaning. It reminded me that I have a duty as a young person of color to make sure stories like Rosewood and Willie James don’t get forgotten.”
Journei Anderson added:
“Learning about the Rosewood Massacre made me feel deep anger and sadness for the innocent lives lost. But hearing Dr. Dunn speak the next day at Florida A&M University helped me connect the dots. He talked about the importance of access to higher education—and how we must carry this truth forward. It made me want to learn more about my own family’s past. I even found pictures of my great-great-grandmother. Now it all feels more personal and real.”
The tour concluded with a powerful lecture at Florida A&M University, where Dr. Dunn spoke passionately about the responsibility we have to expand access to education and opportunity. He challenged students to become advocates for equity—not just in remembering the past, but in shaping the future.
This experience ignited a deeper sense of identity and purpose in our scholars. Through this journey, they became not only students of history but protectors of truth and champions of justice.
As Dr. Dunn reminds us, “The best disinfectant is sunlight.” We’re proud that our Education Equalizer scholars are now carrying that light—brighter than ever.
About The Education Equalizer Foundation
The Education Equalizer Foundation empowers middle—through high school students and their families on the path to higher education. The college admittance process can be daunting and complex, particularly for scholars from underserved backgrounds. Our mission is to demystify this process and provide students with the necessary tools to gain admission and graduate successfully.
Thank you to the following organizations for sponsoring The Education Equalizer Foundation.
The Wagmore Foundation
Drs. Corey and Erika Hartman
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The Education Equalizer Foundation Inc. 501(c)(3) is a tax-exempt organization. The EIN number is 87-3688925.
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Gainesville, FL 32609
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352-363-1197
email: hello@educationequalizers.com