Ray Rickman Discusses Black History Month with GoLocalProv

Stages of Freedom Executive Director Ray Rickman stops by GoLocal LIVE to talk about the significance of Black History Month and the importance of providing programs for youth in Rhode Island.

Rickman describes an idea they have at Stages of Freedom, “If everyone understood, knew about, was educated about, felt something about Black History, everything would change."

Some of the events the non-profit hosts are the Bow Ties for Boys Event, and the Girls Tea Party at Lippitt House.

“It’s about manners” Rickman says. He explained the children have opportunities to make connections, see role models and put their cell phones down.

Another mission of Stages of Freedom is to give youth of color access to swimming programs.

Rickman says the powerful benefits behind swimming are beyond health. Stages of Freedom works to provide swim lessons to children of color so they can in turn experience mental and physical benefits of swimming, have access to jobs, and not face social discrimination" (GoLocalProv).