To kick off Swain's celebration of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we hosted actor, psychologist and performance 
artist Dr. Michael Fowlin (a.k.a.Mykee) for two powerful and moving presentations to The Swain School and community on Thursday. Using personal experiences and collected stories from his work, this one man show tackled issues of race, discrimination and personal identity.
Throughout the performance, Mykee slipped in and out of characters, sharing their stories using humor, emotion and honesty in a way that touched audience members and encouraged reflection and contemplation (and prompted a few tears as well).
His message of kindness, hope and inclusion left a lasting impression on all who experienced his show.
It was funny but still had a good lesson about how everybody has feelings. He wants us to know that a simple smile can help people or even save a life.
- Swain 5th grader
It was a fantastic evening for both my 10-year-old daughter and myself. What a wonderful performance and positive message for all of us.
- Swain parent
Since hearing Mykee I have tried to be more mindful in my interactions with others - making sure I make eye contact and being present with them.
- Swain alumni parent
Mykee's performance was intriguing, funny and serious all at the same
time. It made me feel changed in a number of ways. I would recommend
all middle schoolers and parents to see it. They will definitely get
something out of it. - Swain 6th grader
After the presentation, Mykee asked the middle schoolers to complete this sentence: "After seeing this presentation, I feel ____".
Here are some of the responses:
Braver.
Stronger.
Like I can be a better person.
Regretful.
Normal.
Many thanks to the Borgenicht Foundation for supporting these programs.
And for tomorrow...
A last reminder about our special programming for tomorrow morning to continue the celebration of Dr. King's life. Rather than sleeping in or taking a day off, please consider joining us for this great event!
Carmen Twillie Ambar, president of Cedar Crest College (and mom of first graders Luke, Daniel and Gabby) will be our keynote speaker on
"The Unknown Heroes: The People Behind the Civil Rights Movement". Her presentation will be just one of many activities, including age-appropriate educational sessions, music and dance.
The program runs from 9 a.m. - noon, and we ask Swain students to wear their regular school uniforms. If you are so inclined, we also ask that you bring a donation of a 'birthday party item' (e.g. cake mix, frosting, candles, etc.) to donate to the Northampton Area Food Bank.
After the program, there will be a light lunch provided by Subway. We hope to see you there!
