In a corner office adorned with relics of the past, Michael Carter sits, surrounded by the tangible remnants of history. At 63, with a career spanning over two decades at Sinclair Community College, Carter exudes a passion for education and an unwavering commitment to preserving African American heritage. As senior advisor to the president and chief diversity officer, his influence extends beyond the confines of academia, delving deep into the realms of historical preservation and cultural appreciation.
Carter’s office is a testament to his lifelong dedication to collecting artifacts that tell the story of African American history. From vintage photographs to rare documents, each item holds a piece of the past, carefully curated by Carter himself. But behind every artifact lies a narrative, and for Carter, it’s about more than just collecting; it’s about connecting with the stories of those who came before him.
Artifacts from Carter’s exhibit in the library loggia. Photo Credit: Upasna Yadav
His journey into collecting began as a natural extension of his academic pursuits. A history major in college, Carter found solace in the narratives of the past, drawn to the untold stories waiting to be unearthed. It was during a traveling exhibit on hip-hop music that the spark of inspiration ignited within him. Seeing the opportunity to showcase his own collection, Carter embarked on a mission to gather artifacts that shed light on African American history and culture.
But the path to building his collection was not without its challenges. “Some things that you want are very hard to get,” Carter said, his voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia. “You have to be patient, keep searching, keep looking.” Yet, with perseverance and determination, Carter amassed a collection that serves as a testament to the resilience and triumphs of his ancestors.
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Among the myriad of artifacts, one holds a special place in Carter’s heart – a photograph of Martin Luther King captured in a moment of him playing pool, a stark contrast to the iconic images that often define his legacy. “It shows him in a different light,” Carter said. The meaningful piece of art has been founded by someone. He gave it to Carter knowing that it’ll be preserved safely by him.
Photo Credit: Upasna Yadav
As he reflects on his collection, Carter is quick to offer advice to those interested in preserving African American history. “Preserve what truly grasps you, find things that touch your heart and hold meaning for you,” he said. For Carter, the act of preservation is not merely about the artifacts themselves but about honoring the legacy of those who came before us.
Despite his years of collecting, Carter’s passion shows no signs of waning. “If you’re a collector, you never stop collecting, you never know what you’re going to find, and each discovery brings its own sense of joy and fulfillment,” he said.
As our conversation draws to a close, Carter leaves me with a poignant reminder of the importance of knowing one’s history. “Understanding history gives you a knowledge of self,” he asserts. “It grounds you, shapes you and ultimately empowers you to create a better future.”
Photo Credit: Upasna Yadav
In the end, Carter’s journey is not just about preserving artifacts; it’s about passing on a legacy – a legacy of resilience, strength and the enduring power of history to shape the world we inhabit. And in that legacy lies the true essence of Michael Carter’s life’s work – to find a gift and give it away, ensuring that the stories of the past continue to inspire and enlighten future generations.
This story was originally published in JOU 2101 Introduction to Journalism course spring semester 2024 at Sinclair College.
Upasna Yadav, Intern