Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of African American men and women who overcame racial tensions, and personal struggles to become legends and historical icons. I had the opportunity to listen to one of the most inspiring African American figures in modern history. Spike Lee, the famous and influential writer, director, producer, actor, author, and educator came to Stony Brook University to discuss his life, career, and other relevant topics with students and faculty. Even though the theater itself was too crowded, I was able to observe and listen from the additional viewing screen at the Charles B. Wang Center.

Before he was interviewed by the University's President Michael Bernstein, Spike Lee gave a speech on his early life leading up to his impressive career as a director. His lecture started with a brief review of the State of Union address from the night before. Lee mentioned that it is crucial that young college students get out and vote if they want to make a difference. Lee talked about the problems this country is currently going through, and how this young generation has to take control and work towards making society better. This includes supporting each other, getting an education, following your dreams, and not letting criticism ruin your career ambitions. The best part was hearing Spike Lee discuss what it was like growing up. He explained that he made films that gave an accurate and powerful historical narrative, which is the opposite of what students are taught in school.

Throughout his lecture, Spike Lee used both humor and serious tones to get his message across. In his unique style of communication, he revealed the social issues that impact this country every day. These included topics like our current government, styles of parenting, and life as an African American growing up in the United States. Lee mentioned his films have a strong impact on the black community because they are told from the point of view of influential African American figures.

Spike Lee mentioned that one of the main reasons he wanted to be a filmmaker was to reveal the truth. He said that in past Hollywood films Africans and Native Americans are often characterized as savage. Spike Lee transformed modern cinema for over four decades through his unique and creative storytelling which concentrated on themes like race, segregation, crime, poverty, and more. However, he mentioned that there was one film that required a lot of time, money, and patience to get made.

When Spike Lee was in the process of making the film 'Malcom X,' he ended up losing funding because he refused to let the studio make cuts to the movie and shorten his run-time. He was able to fund the movie by getting donations from celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Prince, Magic Johnson, and Michael Jordan. After 'Malcom X' was finished and released in 1992, it went on to become a critically acclaimed success.

Spike Lee also talked about how his family encouraged him to pursue his career as a film director and concluded by saying education should be an importance to students like it was for himself and his family. He told the students to promise him they will make something of themselves and give back to society. I am certainly glad that I attended this event because it was an interesting and motivating experience. I hope this generation will become influenced by his words to follow their passion, do what they love, enjoy life, and lead the world into a brighter future.