PCCC Family Event: "The National Mall in Color" with John W. McCaskill

“History is best when we tell the entire story.” - John W. McCaskill

On Sunday, February 20, the Parent Cultural Competence Committee hosted a virtual event with John W. McCaskill, president of History Alive! Mr. McCaskill began with an inspirational speech about the power of believing in our youth, saying, “For any student who is not making it now, it is possible for them to turn it around.” Like many before him, Mr. McCaskill believes in the power of education to raise people up. For the next hour, Mr. McCaskill took his audience on a virtual tour of the National Mall and shared historical facts often left unsaid or unseen. 

He started at the beginning of Black History Month with Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who said, “If a race has no history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.” Though Dr. Woodson's historic home in DC is currently closed, you can visit when it reopens. With many stops at other historic houses in D.C. and memorials along the National Mall, Mr. McCaskill ended his virtual tour at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

Mr. McCaskill's parting words were even more passionate in his optimism for the future, saying, “Those kids from Potomac School can change the world!” In order for our country to find resolution and healing, he says, “We need better players. Where are they? Potomac!” His advice to students: after asking the question, “You want to be successful?” One, maintain your character; two, develop competency; and three, seek camaraderie. His message was very in line with Potomac's mission to prepare students to lead lives of purpose, achievement, and generosity of spirit.

Experience the entire virtual tour as narrated by Mr. McCaskill.