QuayHanna

StandPoint Communications

Creating & Building Strategic Partnerships

QUAY HANNA AUTHOR & YOUTH SPEAKER ON RACISM AND PREJUDICE

Authentic is one of the best ways to describe Quay Hanna. When he began his career as a speaker, he didn't get paid for any engagements for the first 3 years. In fact, he would take time off from his construction job to visit the schools that were in need. He is truly dedicated to the cause of getting teenagers to respect one another, regardless of differences they may have. His interaction with students has been shown to effectively change attitudes of young people and the entire school environment. Not only do students begin to break through the labels they are given, but they also begin to look at others very differently.

In 1993, Quay set out on a mission. After graduating from college with a B.A. in English, he left his small town of Strasburg, PA to see America. He hopped on a Greyhound bus and began traversing the country. Nine weeks, thirty-seven states, and twelve-thousand miles later, he got more than an incredible journey and hundreds of stories to tell. As he traveled he was forced to confront his own racist and prejudiced beliefs, causing him to realize that life had more to offer than his lifelong hatred of others. Upon his return to Strasburg, he had a new objective: to reach out to his subculture- rural, white America – and to challenge racist beliefs as his were challenged on the trip.

Quay published a book about his life-changing experience entitled, Bus America: Revelation of a Redneck and began telling his story to audiences around the country in 1997. Nine years and hundreds of schools later, he is still entertaining and educating students on a daily basis. He is not your "bells-and-whistles" type of speaker. It is only a man in his t-shirt and jeans with a microphone. No multimedia. No magic tricks. No stand-up routine. Quay presents in a simple and honest way that has caused hundreds of thousands of students to take an introspective look at their lives.

Quay's programs are extremely effective in schools that are looking to act in a proactive way towards student relations, or for schools that are currently struggling with racial and prejudicial issues. In addition to his assembly speaking, he also offers consultation to school officials and communities dealing with hatred and violence, along with private consultation for individuals or groups that are showing interest or are involved in hate-filled beliefs and activities. Rest assured, Quay's participation in your school will help put it on the path to reconciliation and peace.