Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa, 92.9 WTUG, Praise 93.3, 105.1 The Block, and the Tuscaloosa Thread are proud to present the 2024 Black History Makers of Alabama.

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Yellowhammer State is filled with great African American leaders from the past, present, and future. We thank our West Alabama community partners, the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, Delta Phi Lambda Chapter, and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Eta Xi Omega Chapter, for their continued support.

Black History Maker of Alabama - Dre'mail King

Dre'mail King, a devoted husband, father, friend, coach, and devout man of faith, is deeply rooted in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, having grown up on the Westside of town. His life experiences bear the imprints of the storms of oppression, discrimination, and systemic racism that prevailed during his youth. However, for King, Black history serves as a testament to resilience, determination, and an indomitable spirit that emerges from the darkest chapters of history.

Photo Courtesy: Dremail King/WBHS
Photo Courtesy: Dremail King/WBHS
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With a 14-year tenure in education, King currently serves as the head football coach in the Bibb County School District at West Blocton High School.

He recognizes the profound impact he wields in shaping the future of the community and its leaders. Coaching, in King's perspective, extends beyond securing victories on the field; it provides a platform to positively influence future households. Through coaching, he imparts values, encourages personal growth, and develops skills that transcend the football field, equipping young individuals for the challenges of adulthood.

In the historic year of 2022, King made history himself as the first Black head football coach in the Bibb County School District. While this accomplishment brought honor, it also shed light on the glaring lack of diversity in leadership positions, particularly within the coaching realm. King emphasizes that coaches play a pivotal role in students' lives, often spending more time with them than their parents. Thus, the call for more Black leaders is not just a plea for representation but a recognition that diverse leadership mirrors the reality of the world.

"The time is always right to do what is right." - Dr. Martin Luther King

As a Black History Maker of Alabama, this honor holds profound significance for King. It acknowledges his contribution to the ongoing narrative of Black history, standing on the shoulders of those who paved the way before him. Through coaching, King aims to be a beacon of inspiration, breaking barriers, and paving the way for a more inclusive and just society. Witnessing the growth of young professionals and impactful individuals is a gratifying experience that reinforces the importance of his role in shaping the future.

''Black history, to me, is a deeply personal and collective narrative that intertwines with my journey'' - Dremail King

As King navigates the complexities of his own journey, being part of Black history becomes a responsibility and an honor. It signifies a commitment to fostering positive change, promoting diversity in leadership, and leaving a lasting impact on future generations. For King, Black history is not merely a retrospective; it is an ongoing narrative that he actively contributes to, with the hope of inspiring and shaping a better future for all.

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