Sharing The Influential Stories of Black History

RWU Senior David Hayes’ project aims to spread awareness of influential people and events throughout history in celebration of Black History Month

By Kindell Brown
Posters of prominent African American people and events throughout history
A collection of posters from the 'Know The Name, Know The Story' project can be seen throughout campus during Black History Month

BRISTOL, R.I. - Walking around the Bristol campus you can’t help but notice the posters of some familiar and unfamiliar faces of African American figures throughout history. These posters are a part of the project ‘Know The Name, Know The Story’ created by senior David Hayes.

“It’s really important that there is some dedication to the history of African Americans and black Americans because our history is as much intertwined as all the other histories that make up the United States,” said Hayes. “Black history is American history.”

Each poster depicts a notable African American figure or event along with a QR code that directs you to its factual information. ‘Know the Name, Know the Story’ is Hayes' way of providing more awareness surrounding Black History Month on campus. It’s a fun, quick and easy way to learn about historical people and events that aren't frequently taught as part of  American education, discovering new information you may have never known.