BCC Student Athlete Shares Thoughts on Black History Month

We continue our Black History Month celebration with some thoughts from student-athlete Tyre Boykin. Tyre is a BCC sophomore and plays guard for the Dolphins Men’s Basketball Team.  

To him, Black History Month is a time to honor what our ancestors and black historians fought for. “It is an opportunity to embrace and celebrate our ethnicity and achievements throughout the years, though it is still a work in progress,” said Tyre. “Black history is something that we should celebrate throughout the year, but it’s also good to emphasize the impact of black-owned businesses, movements, talent, inventors, foods, and culture during February.” 

If you’ve seen Tyre (No. 4) in action on the court, you know he does not back down from a challenge. “Throughout my life, people told me what I couldn’t do because of my background, size, and skin color,” said Tyre. “They said the odds were against me because I was a black male raised in a single-parent household. That may have been the case, but it didn’t stop me. I focus on staying grounded, uplifted, and reminded that I do not have to be a statistic. Every challenge has made me stronger. Plus, with God on my side, anything is possible.”    

Tyre said his parents and brother inspire him most when asked about role models. “They are black business owners, and I’ve watched them put in the work to achieve their goals. They make me want to start a business of my own one day.”    

In the meantime, Tyre encourages others to join him in giving back to the community by volunteering at food banks and homeless shelters. “I also enjoy mentoring at local schools,” he said. “Playing basketball and spending time with youth is always a joy. We can all do those things to keep Black History Month alive.” 

February 2024