Harold McKoy II

History with Grit: Recovering the Life of John E. Bruce and the Formation of Early Black Yonkers revives the legacy of Bruce, a trailblazing African American intellectual, journalist, and activist. Through archival research, digital storytelling, and media production, the project explores his contributions to Black history and Yonkers’ cultural heritage. In collaboration with academics, community partners, and WCC students, it produces a pilot documentary, educational resources, and digital assets. These efforts provide students with professional experience in media while fostering community pride and creating a “usable past” for Yonkers.