After the snowstorm on Feb. 22, multiple events and celebrations were canceled throughout Long Island, Uniondale High School had a special event, celebrating “100 years of Black excellence” for Black History Month, the school instead celebrated on March 13 after rescheduling twice.
Music, art and a vibrant showcase of spirit and culture brought together the Uniondale community. This year, marks 100 years since the founding of a Black History Month celebration. The high school was filled with student performances, artwork and a theme of solidarity.
“It’s a time to unapologetically celebrate all of our growth as people,” said Uniondale High School Principal Shawn Brown. “To showcase the positive attributes of our culture: music, food, tradition, and academic excellence.”
The night’s theme was solidarity, which reflected a broader goal of nurturing a community and educating students about Black history and culture. This was a chance not just to celebrate the culture, but to reflect and educate students and the community about its history. Brown emphasized how important this celebration of solidarity is in today’s world.
“Based on where we are as a nation, I think it’s important that we show some solidarity,” Brown said. “We might have different religious beliefs, political beliefs, but we have to.
At some point throughout the entire year, have some type of solidarity around our culture,” he added.
Students performed spoken word, step routines and cultural dances. Some students also volunteered to help set up before the event and clean up after the event.
“When you put everything together, it’s a message that sends volumes throughout your community,” said Hannah Eugene, junior at Uniondale High School.
Eugene served as a student representative on the Black History program committee and was nominated for the position by her teacher, Jillian Pallone. She explained that she was their “insider”, where faculty asked her what students would like to see, and their interests.
Along with helping plan the event, Eugene also hosted the program, introducing the performers and working to energize the audience throughout the night.
“It was a really good experience for me,” Eugene said. “I loved bringing people up and hyping up groups.”
Serving as a gathering space, Uniondale High School brought together students from across the district along with their families and community.
Beyond the entertainment throughout the night, Brown said he hopes that events similar to this inspire students to take pride in their own identity and to understand the legacy they are a part of.
“My ultimate goal is I want the children to be proud of the culture and to understand the responsibility that comes with being a part of this culture and being Black,” Brown said “We have a legacy of people who have lost their lives to give us the opportunity to even be in school.”
He added that he hopes the celebration encourages students to strive for excellence in both academia and in their personal lives, while recognizing their ancestors and the history made before them.
In the final part of the night, attendees were encouraged to walk through the hallways to view artwork created by students throughout the district during the school year.
“The main focus is on our students’ artwork,” said Sandra Edwards, the district clerk. “We are showcasing student art from all levels.”
The display served as a reminder that the celebration of Black culture and history extended beyond the stage, allowing students another platform and medium to express their voices.
“It’s to show how even though you may be feeling small…you can do a whole bunch of things,” Eugene said.
