The Black Lives Matter Campaign originated as a movement to discuss unjust treatment and violence against black people. Its focus is to call attention to and take action against practices that marginalize black lives.

The Career Preparation Period Graduation Ceremony held on Feb. 11 paid homage to a heritage rich in culture and creativity. Instead of focusing on injustices, the students were reminded of all the reasons why black lives matter, and why their journey through this program will make their lives matter to those who will follow them.

During the ceremony, the speakers presented tributes to African Americans who have mattered in their lives. Those receiving accolades ranged from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to celebrity athletes and included the strong, single mothers who raise young black men.

Student Kenneth Hannah served as the master of ceremonies for the event, and he offered Moments that Matter trivia questions throughout the graduation. The students who answered the questions were able to showcase their personal knowledge of black history.

Kenneth asked many interesting questions, including one about the Black Panther Party, the political organization founded by Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale in Oakland, California, in 1966.

Kenneth also asked which two performing artists won a Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media in 2015. The answer was “Glory,” a song written for the movie “Selma” by composers Common, Che Smith and John Stephens.

A variety of music and a drill performance demonstrated the creativity of the black culture during the ceremony.

Although they were celebrating the past, the students acknowledged that the opportunity to make a great future is their responsibility. This is their moment to make history, to make a difference and to live lives that matter.