Black History Month originates from Carter G. Woodson’s Negro History Week, and it has been a staple period of celebration and commemoration of Black culture and history for decades since. Beginning on February 1st, the month commonly centers around key Black figures in history and their contributions. Inventors, activists, artists, and pioneers such as Ida B. Wells, John Lewis, Langston Hughes, and so many others are remembered and celebrated for their ideas and efforts that transformed society. Overall, Black History Month celebrates the music, art, and achievements that make up Black culture.
North Atlanta pulled out all the stops in making its own BHM celebration one to remember. The Black Student Union worked hard in creating a showcase consisting of singers, speakers, dancers, and much more—and they did not disappoint. Twelfth grader Maya Hullum, lead technical coordinator, was in charge of all of the technical aspects of the showcase. She enjoyed hearing from student perspectives and watching creative performances play out. “I think that my favorite part was the Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader,” Hullum said. “It was really funny.”
Senior Andres Gonzalez, BSU treasurer, found the celebration very representative of Black culture, both historically and in the modern day. He felt the sense of community throughout the showcase was very strong, particularly near the end when everybody joined up on the stage. One of the strongest values of Black History Month is connection and community, and the showcase perfectly encapsulated that. Overall, he thought the showcase honored and celebrated Black History Month perfectly. “It was very important that we got it out and a lot of people enjoyed it,” Gonzalez said.
It’s clear that the showcase was a hit all around. Saige Hill, tenth grader, participated in the dances of the showcase. In preparation, she went to dance practices to ensure she understood all of the steps and motions well. To her, Black History Month is all about perseverance in the Black community, and celebrating the inventions and ideas that Black people have contributed to society. Additionally, Hill was a big fan of the fashion parts of the show. “I really enjoyed the fashion aspects,” Hill said. “They were so vibrant and were just so proud about what they were wearing, and were very confident walking down the stage.”
Whether through fashion, music, or inventions, Black people have played huge roles in shaping society throughout history. Through Black History Month, these figures can be properly honored and celebrated, along with the beauty and complexity of Black culture.
