Photo via Austin Williams

By: Truth Jackson, Staff Writer

Addressing a captivated audience of students from the Atlanta University Center, the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa delivered an impassioned address at Morehouse College on Monday. Ambassador Reuben E. Brigety II, Ph.D. ignited a fervent call to action for the young men of this historic institution.

“America needs you,” Brigety said.

Brigety explained how, through the practice of democracy: you can serve America, shape history, and stand with your ancestors. Beckoning students to serve America’s diplomacy, he urged the young men of Morehouse to recognize their pivotal role in shaping America’s engagement with the world. 

He emphasized the unique perspective that individuals of color can offer in international spheres of leadership, noting that diversity of thought is essential for addressing the world’s ever-evolving challenges.

“I firmly believe that there is no scenario in which our nation’s interests and our interests as individual citizens are served by an absence of American leadership,” Brigety said. 

During his speech, Brigety addressed the gravest global issues. He spoke of America’s ongoing efforts to rally support for Ukraine amidst Russia’s invasion and the concerted efforts of the BRICKS’ (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) efforts to reshape the global economic and political order. He also underscored the need for international collaboration to combat climate change, despite international political tension.

Brigety predicts these issues will affect American industries, environments, and security conditions. He urged the men of Morehouse to take decisive action to help shape this ever-changing global landscape.

“For America to sustain its global leadership, we need the very best that America offers,” Brigety said. “That is where you come in, men of Morehouse. America needs you, and you have the opportunity to help shape America’s engagement in the world.”

“I thought that his words about shaping history were so important,” Amir Childs said, a junior Psychology major at Morehouse. “I hope the other brothers in the room realize that we are the future of this nation.”

Evoking the legacy of African Americans in diplomacy, Brigety urged the students to embrace their ancestral connection to diplomacy, seeing it as a continuation of a powerful legacy. He highlighted the legacies of Frederick Douglass and Andrew Young.

“These are a few of the many African American men who have served America with great distinction in the field of diplomacy,” Brigety said. “They have carved a path for every one of you; they demonstrated that you belong in American foreign policy.”

Brigety explained that the power and purpose of American diplomacy is to encourage our partners worldwide to see their interests intertwined with ours. 

“History is not inevitable; it is a direct result of the choices people make,” Brigety said.

“It is important to acknowledge that individuals are the ones who make foreign policy and participate in the international community,” Ryeon Jang, Ph.D. said, an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Morehouse.

As the echoes of his speech subsided, the men of Morehouse were left with a renewed conviction to answer America’s call for leadership, to embrace their heritage, and to shape a future of global harmony and progress.

“Brigety’s words reaffirmed my interest in international Affairs,” Shemar Cuyler said, a senior International Studies major at Morehouse. “His speech was evidence of just how needed I am in international relations as a Black man and how it is my birthright to be involved in global affairs.”

Copy Edited by: Colin Royal, Managing Editor of Print