Teaching Black History Conference 2025: A Full-Circle Moment of Black Joy and Mentorship

Buffalo was a long drive from Philly but the journey was more than worth it. Last week, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Teaching Black History Conference at the University at Buffalo, led by Center Director and Conference Leader Dr. LaGarrett J. King, PhD.

This year’s theme, Black Boy Joy, Black Girl Magic: The History of Black Childhoods, was as vibrant and meaningful as it sounds. It brought together educators, historians, and advocates from across the country to explore the joy, resilience, and brilliance of Black childhoods throughout history.

It was an inspiring and empowering experience. I left feeling renewed, challenged, and honored to be part of such an essential conversation one that celebrates the beauty and power of Black identity from the earliest years of life.

A Full-Circle Moment

One of the most unexpected and joyful moments of the conference came when I ran into Karim Brown, a former library patron I hadn’t seen in over 15 years. As a young student, Karim often visited the Overbrook Park Branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia, where I worked at the time. He reminded me of something I had completely forgotten or perhaps never realized: how I encouraged him to put down the computer games and dive into the world of books.

What I saw as a small, everyday act something all youth librarians do left a lasting impression on him.

Fast forward to today, and Karim is now a school teacher at Belmont Charter High School. Not only that he was also a panel speaker at the very same conference we were attending! Seeing him stand in his power, sharing insights as an educator, was a deeply emotional and affirming experience. It reminded me that the seeds we plant-especially in childhood can blossom in ways we may never see… until we do.

      Karim Brown and Marvin DeBose aka Mr. Philly Librarian

The Power of Black Joy Across Generations

Moments like this reinforce the importance of mentorship, community, and the enduring legacy of Black joy. They are a reminder that the work we do whether in classrooms, libraries, or recreation centers-matters. Deeply.

I’m grateful to have attended the Teaching Black History Conference and to have witnessed firsthand the generational impact of care, encouragement, and shared stories.

As we continue the work of teaching Black history and affirming Black futures, I carry this moment with me as a reminder of what’s possible. 

-Mr. Philly Librarian