Contributed by the Dream Day Foundation
The Dream Day Foundation in partnership with Harris Funeral Home, Kroger, Inc., McDonald’s of Auburn and Opelika and Opelika City Council welcomed approximately 65 young men, parents and presenters as they braved the inclement weather and COVID-19. This third annual Black Male Summit was held on Saturday Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Summit was originally scheduled to be hosted at the Opelika Sportsplex Amphitheater but due to rain it was moved to OHS. All attendees adhered to COVID-19 guidelines with a temperature check, wearing a mask and practicing social distancing. Signs with names of young men that have been killed were used in between seats to help with social distancing. Each young man was given a theme mask along with a summit t-shirt. Each participant was also given a gift card that was donated by local citizens. A light breakfast was provided by Gentry and Ware Motors along with lunch provided by the Good Ol’ Boys Social Club. The theme for this year was The Bigger Picture. Keynote Speaker George Bandy Jr., a native of Opelika, offered words of wisdom in sharing his story of growing up as a young black boy in Opelika. He shared how God can use anyone to do great things. Other presenters were Tyrone White, Damian Sinclair and Dialleo Burks.
A Q & A session was allowed at the end of each session.