Judge Greg Mathis Salutes African-American Achievement During Black History Month 2002 On “Judge Mathis”

(January 28, 2002 – New York, NY) - During the month of February 2002, Black History Month, "Judge Mathis" will air four in-show vignettes about some of the many African-Americans who helped build this country. These spots focus on Alex Haley, a celebrated author and family man; Paul Robeson, the singer, actor and political activist; George Washington Carver, the agricultural scientist and inventor and Coretta Scott King, the widow of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Alex Haley, the first African-American to trace his roots back to the motherland, wrote the critically acclaimed novel, “Roots,” which was turned into an award-winning television mini-series that would change the attitude of all Americans. Haley was a trailblazer whose undying commitment to discover the history of his ancestors changed the way many, including Judge Greg Mathis, view family. Mathis states, “If today’s youth continues to go through life without an understanding of history, the youth will forever be lost. I believe if you don’t know where you’ve been, you’ll have a hard time figuring out where you’re going.” Paul Robeson, the son of a former slave, was born in 1898. As a boy, he excelled in both scholastics and athletics, receiving a scholarship to Rutgers University and becoming the valedictorian of his graduating class. He then proceeded to earn his law degree at Columbia University, but instead of pursuing law, he chose to use his talents to bring about change in America. Travelling the world as an actor and singer, Robeson saw first-hand the racial hatred and injustices that the underprivileged endured and it caused Robeson to become a civil activist in the fight against racism. George Washington Carver won international fame for his agricultural research. He is especially noted for his work with peanuts, developing more than 300 products. He also worked hard to promote the interests of black people and improve peace relations between blacks and whites. Coretta Scott King married Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1953. Two years later, the Civil Rights movement began and she was united with her husband on the forefront of the movement. Her husband was the leader of one of the most powerful movements this world has ever known. Mrs. King supported her husband and the movement by taking care of their four children and making life safe for them. “Judge Mathis” is produced by And Syndicated Productions and Telepictures Productions in association with Black Pearl Entertainment and distributed by Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution. # # #