Fresno schools chief is ‘one of the greatest civil rights leaders’

Recently I heard “one of the most courageous persons the civil rights movement ever produced,” as Congressman John Lewis is often called. He spoke often about the importance of education and reminded us of the “need to move forward and not backward” in the cause of liberty. (I think that one was pointed at Donald Trump and his meme). Many dignitaries and civil rights leaders were introduced.

However, I believe one of the greatest civil rights leaders in Fresno in the 21st century was not introduced: Mike Hanson, Fresno Unified School District superintendent. Here’s why:

1. He constructed, in southwest Fresno, one of the finest school facilities and staffs in the country, with a free medical clinic on site.

2. “It’s not your fault, but it is your problem” is my new mantra since attending the Fresno Unified convocation.

Before we get too big-headed, football players in southwest Fresno have never played a home game in southwest Fresno.

This story was originally published August 22, 2015 at 6:40 AM with the headline "Fresno schools chief is ‘one of the greatest civil rights leaders’."