For Deidre Taylor, the importance of Black History Month lies in teaching about the past to remember and honor the figures who sacrificed to help build a brighter future for others. It is important to pass along the lessons passed down in books or through stories, but just as important that each generation has leaders prepared to leave behind a better community for the next generations.
Born and raised in Houston, Deidre Taylor is a product of the Aldine community. Taylor and her five siblings were encouraged by their parents to participate in school activities. As a result, she had a growing list of ways to leave her mark. In high school, Taylor did everything from student government, band, cheerleading, even community service.
As she got older, Taylor’s list of community involvement became more extensive. During her high school and college years, there was a desire to help those around her.
“I became more involved with community affairs,” said Taylor. “Through networking and hearing about the needs of others, I found myself working with both city and county officials. Through these encounters, I was able to resolve issues and concerns for the greater good, not just for my neighborhood, but also the surrounding communities.”
Over the years, Taylor has remained loyal to the community that raised her and continued her support for where she grew up. For over 40 years, she has watched as future generations walk onto the LSC-North Harris campus and work towards reaching their goals.
As a librarian, she helps students search for knowledge that can open doors they never knew were there.
Most knowledge Taylor shares doesn’t come from helping a student find a book on the shelves. Whether it’s Black History Month, Women’s History Month, or Hispanic Heritage Month, you can bet there’s a Library display with Taylor’s fingerprints all over it, offering students a glimpse of the power their voices have.
Her advice to students is simple - do not discount the value of history.
“Learn from those who came before you,” said Taylor. “Be inspired by those who were courageous and those who were not, so you become your best self. Remember, progress with purpose.”
However, just learning about how others broke through the noise to be heard isn’t enough, she said. For Taylor, students need to see how they can affect change in their community. As a member of the college’s civic engagement team, Taylor hopes to inspire students to understand the power of their vote to support their futures.
“I am deeply hopeful that students will learn the value of their vote and the need for them to give back to the community wherever they live or work,” said Taylor. “No vote, no voice, no change.”
Taylor will continue her involvement in the community for years to come. But along the way, she will continue to teach younger generations of their history and the importance of adding their voice to future lessons.