At Cass Technical High School’s graduation in Detroit this month, 104-year-old alumna Julia Esaw returned to be honored by her alma mater. A proud member of the Class of 1939, Esaw was one of just six Black students in her class.
During her time as a student, Blacks weren’t allowed to attend prom or take part in senior traditions, but Esaw stayed focused, excelled, and opened doors for those who followed, “I know that they were hard on my race of people,” she recalled.
During the ceremony, Principal Lisa Phillips presented Esaw with the Distinguished Alumni Award, calling her a powerful example for students. “We don’t push the history enough with our children because if you know where you came from, you know where you’re going,” Phillips told to WXYZ Detroit.
“To see this beautiful lady, Ms. Esaw on stage at 104, the kids have something to think about, something to achieve and never tell us what you can’t do because she did it against all of the odds.”
Esaw, who turns 105 this October, was married to Tuskegee Airman Burkes Esaw and proudly sent all four of her children to graduate from Cass Tech as well. Her presence reminded the crowd that our elders’ legacies continue to shape the path forward.
Cover photo: Detroit High School Honors 104-Year-Old Julia Esaw, One of Its First Black Graduates Award / Photo Credit: WXYZ