Black History Month celebration showcases talents of black students

In a night filled with art, performances, and proud friends and family, a Black History Month Celebration truly showcased the many talents of African American students. Hosted by the African American Parent Advisory Council and Black Student Union (BSU) on Feb. 27, the celebration featured a gallery walk displaying student art and live performances.

The eclectic art gallery included photography, paintings, mosaics, engineering projects, ceramic pieces, and more. The subjects of the works varied from black history and culture to science and everything in between.

“I decided that I wanted to show my love for women of color and my intention of my piece was to show my solidarity and present how women, black women, are beautiful,” stated junior Addie Bukhari, who presented her painting “A Woman’s Touch” and performed a related poem of the same title. “My piece is a hand coming out of roots, symbolizing the beauty and power of black women and how it’s been embedded in our history, for so long, and if you open your heart up, they (women) have the capability to fill the world with positivity and joy.”

Meanwhile, the performances were just as diverse. Students performed songs and poems, some of which were original compositions, along with monologues and dances that engaged the entire audience.

“I think it was a really great showcase of black excellence and I was honored to have the opportunity to perform,” said senior Bune Locke, who sang a rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

After many events at CVHS, such as a former Black Panther speaking, thanks to BSU during Seasons of Service, Period of Peace (SOSPOP), this celebration was an inspiring way to end Black History Month.

“During SOSPOP we honored Black History, but during the celebration we put a spotlight on the students at CVHS,” stated senior Layne Johnson, BSU president.