A Black Mathematician’s Story
In the summer, before going off to college, a question weighed heavily on my mind: was pursuing a Mathematics major a realistic choice for me? While my dreams of a career in the entertainment industry were steadfast, I recognized the importance of living in the present moment. It was during this highly contemplative period that I found myself revisiting the film 'Good Will Hunting.'
The movie chronicles the life of Will Hunting, a gifted young janitor at MIT, portrayed by Matt Damon. The story tells Will's extraordinary mathematical genius and his transformative journey guided by therapist Sean Maguire, played by THE Robin Williams. Through their sessions, Sean helps Will confront his past traumas, dismantle emotional barriers, and discover his true self-worth.
As I marveled at the creative brilliance of the film and its deserving Oscar acclaim, I grappled with the massive contrast between its depiction and my own reality as a Black man about to attend an HBCU in the South. Yet, this disparity didn't deter me from further exploration, leading me to yet another movie, "A Beautiful Mind." This biographical drama, directed by Ron Howard, sheds light on John Nash's life, brilliantly portrayed by Russell Crowe. Nash's journey as a brilliant mathematician and Nobel Laureate battling schizophrenia intrigued me.
However, amidst these powerful narratives, I questioned whether all mathematicians were depicted as perpetually struggling or whether Black individuals were altogether absent from the mathematical landscape. These thoughts lingered as I contemplated the industry's lack of diverse representation, especially before the emergence of "Hidden Figures." The term itself begs the question: why were these figures hidden in the first place? This a rhetorical question that deserves an eye-roll.
In an attempt to shift my focus from this disheartening and consuming thoughts, I sought peace and blackness in a rerun of my favorite TV show, 'A Different World.' A ray of Black hope emerged through the character Dwayne Wayne, portrayed by Kadeem Hardison. DeWayne's double major in mathematics and engineering resonated heavily with me and the ancestors! He defied stereotypes, attending an HBCU and pursuing a field that had once seemed exclusive.
This revelation reinvigorated my confidence, encouraging me to believe that success as a mathematician wasn't the exclusive domain of an archetype but a pursuit open to anyone. Dwayne Wayne's journey mirrored my aspirations, depicting a life that encompassed personal growth, relationships, and opportunities in addition to academic pursuits. This realization fueled my determination to carve my own path, one that resonated with my unique experiences.
The transformative power of studying mathematics altered not only my outlook but also my life trajectory. It revolutionized my perspective, broadening my horizons and enriching my experiences one moment at a time. As an actor and mathematician, I aspire to tell the story of Black mathematicians who thrive against all odds, achieving abundance without the crutch of a "White savior."
My journey is fueled by the desire to authentically tell the story of a Black mathematician whose impact, no matter the scale, creates a ripple of positive change. Whether it's influencing family, institutions, or millions of lives, I am committed to breaking down barriers, defying stereotypes, and embracing the narrative of limitless possibilities.
