Late local leader, historian remembered on his birthday
By Jamie Schnell
schnellj@knoxfocus.com
The auditorium at Vine Magnet Middle School was filled on Monday night as community members and students gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Robert Booker, who passed away in February 2024. Dr. Booker was a historian, a writer, a politician, an Austin High School graduate and a leader of Knoxville’s Civil Rights Movement, where he was pivotal in integrating the historic Tennessee Theatre in 1963.
April 14 was Dr. Booker’s birthday and the celebration focused on Booker’s journey, emphasizing his rise from humble beginnings.
The evening began with “The Bottom,” a gallery walk that showcased newspaper articles highlighting significant moments in Dr. Booker’s life, along with various memorabilia such as his desk from the state House, his graduation gown, and attire from his time in Phi Beta Sigma.
Additional displays included a mirror that encouraged guests to reflect on the legacy they would want to see in their own lives. There was also a board where attendees could write affirming messages and express their gratitude for the impact Dr. Booker had on the community.
VMMS Principal Robin Curry spoke about how Dr. Booker established the legacy of who we are and who we are meant to become. “The strength lies in the people; we are all connected through history and purpose,” she stated. Following her introduction, Curry and a student read the poem, “The Hill We Climb.”
Reverend Renee Kesler, president of the Beck Cultural Exchange, delivered a tribute to Dr. Booker. She spoke about the history of the Booker Bridge and the timeline of the changing schools, and Dr. Booker’s advocacy efforts to fight for students’ rights to education. Reverend Kesler also shared Dr. Booker’s final words: “I dare you to go be great,” encouraging everyone to “go and leave this world better than you found it and write your story for generations to come.”
Knoxville Community Media, led by Ian Henderson, screened a documentary titled “From the Bottom Up.” This project was developed with assistance from students and includes reflections on Booker’s legacy, such as his role in the Knox County Legislature, his Calvin McClung interview series, and his meeting his “sweetheart.”
Reverend Harold Middlebrook delivered an impactful call-to-action speech. Rev. Middlebrook remembered his own roots in Memphis: “Your place was at the bottom, segregated in schools.” He reflected on the people who built his confidence, including his grandmother, who would say, “Boy, you are somebody.” He also recalled how a preacher once told him, “Your feet may be in the mud, but your head is in the stars.” He concluded with, “We’ve come a long way, but we have a long way to go.” As he pointed at the students in the auditorium, he emphasized, “You are SOMEBODY.”
Kyle Pickell, the community coordinator who envisioned coordinating this event since Dr. Booker’s passing last year, presented the Booker Legacy Awards with Principal Curry. The event concluded with birthday cake and a unique rendition of “Happy Birthday” performed by students from the VMMS Band.
