Cynics are everywhere and in all walks of life.
Monday-morning quarterbacks have opinions about everything, yet do
not accept responsibility for any problem. Optimism, ingenuity and hope
for a better future seem to be on the decline.
We aspire to be the next American Idol, yet our children have little
interest in becoming the next American scientist, physician or
educator.
In Memphis cynicism is pervasive, and no wonder. Recently, our
community has been judged one of the poorest, hungriest, fattest, and
most miserable cities in the nation. We are now one of the worst cities
for biking. Is there reason to be an optimist, or should we all resign
ourselves to lives of hopelessness? The crisis of apathy is an
imbroglio for our community.
How do we escape the malaise of inaction that is the antithesis of
our beliefs as Americans? First, we must accept and appreciate the
beauty of diversity, whether it is racial, political or religious.
Next, recognize the status quo is unacceptable and understand we have a
collective responsibility to make our world better and create a model
society for the welfare of all our citizens.
Fortunately, there are visionaries and philanthropists who are
transforming our city. The Stax Museum of American Soul Music
celebrates the rich legacy of our musical heritage. Stax was among the
first racially integrated businesses in the South.
The music was the work of musicians, producers and engineers, black
and white working together at a time of racial segregation. Stax
launched the careers of Isaac Hayes, Booker T. and the MGs, Sam &
Dave, and Otis Redding.
Hundreds of thousands of visitors have been guests of the museum,
from all walks of life and every corner of the globe. Notable visitors
have included Bono, Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Wonder, Elvis Costello, Huey
Lewis and Steve Jobs.
Time magazine named the museum "the most authentic American
experience in Tennessee." The New York Times, National Geographic and
Southern Living are among many publications worldwide that have praised
and recommended the museum.
The Stax legacy continues to create opportunities. The Stax Music
Academy serves young, gifted musicians with instruction, workshops,
ensembles and unique performance opportunities.
Our students have been the beneficiaries of workshops with Branford
Marsalis, Emmanuel Ax, Cyrus Chestnut and Ben Cauley. They have
performed in Europe and Australia.
The results have been phenomenal. Six of our seniors this year have
been accepted to the prestigious Berklee College of Music. Others will
be majoring in music at many outstanding colleges and universities. The
neighborhood that gave birth to Aretha Franklin is now nurturing the
next generation of talented artists.
The Soulsville Charter School, also on our campus, is a rigorous
college preparatory program. The school is home to students in grades
6-10 (6-12 in 2012). Expectations are that 100 percent of our graduates
will matriculate to college.
The outstanding and enthusiastic faculty and administration that
have been assembled from across the nation motivate students to reach
their potential. The program demands excellence. Music is integrated
into the curriculum. Students are required to participate in The
Soulsville Symphony Orchestra.
The children attend school from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, on many
Saturdays, and are required to attend a summer session. Students
consistently score above average on standardized tests. Parental and
community involvement are strongly encouraged. If you do not know the
aforementioned term "imbroglio," ask any student at The Soulsville
Charter School and they will enthusiastically provide the definition.
They taught me the meaning.
These programs are part of The Soulsville Foundation. Our new CEO,
Kirk Whalum, is a world-renowned musician and the quintessential role
model for our children. Kirk's family has been part of the Soulsville
neighborhood for almost 100 years.
What a blessing that Kirk has decided to make Memphis home. He has
lived in Los Angeles and Paris, but his heart and passion are now
focused on Memphis and our children.
Please help us change expectations. Besides Soulsville, there are
many other wonderful organizations such as the Boys Club, BRIDGES Inc.,
and Youth Villages that need and deserve your support.
Winston Churchill said, "The price of greatness is responsibility."
It is time for us to collectively accept responsibility if we are to
grow as a community.
If you want to feel proud to live in Memphis, call me. Kirk and I
would be delighted to show you the sights on McLemore and the sounds of
children, who unlike cynics, will be the dreamers and leaders of
tomorrow.
Mark Wender is chief operating officer of The Soulsville Foundation.
Contact Mark Wender at (901) 261-6345 or mark.wender@soulsvillefoundation.org.
