February is a month where the United States pays tribute to the generations of African Americans who have struggled with adversity throughout American history. The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) named ‘Black Resistance’ as the theme for February 2023. Looking at what Pace is doing to incorporate this theme into the month, multiple events and presentations will be hosted in order to celebrate the Black community. “Black History Month is when we take a moment to pause during the month of February to spotlight Black history as we engage this conversation throughout the year,” said Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer Joanne Beauvoir Brown.
Pace is focusing on various areas of the arts in order to educate students on Black history. To kick off the month, Andre Bradford, with the stage name S.C Says, will be showing us the artistry of words. He is a spoken word artist who will be performing his poetry pieces. He tends to emphasize the importance of empathy around identity and focuses on celebrating Black culture. “I hope our students take away another layer of curiosity, and walk away with a heightened sense of appreciation for what they learn and what they are exposed to. I hope students will see our assemblies as another opportunity for us to learn outside of the four walls of a classroom,” said Ms. Beauvoir Brown.
Looking at the following assembly, Creative Soul Photography introduces an appreciation for Black culture through the visual arts. The final assembly is a preview to a Knight of Jazz. The discussion will lead to the origin of jazz music out of Black culture, emphasizing the influence that Black artists have had on the music industry and other arts. “I would say the best way to learn more would be to be led by your own curiosity. What are you passionate about? And then, look and see whether or not that pool of content that you have is diverse. Does it include Black voices? If not, that is where I think you should start,” said Ms. Beauvoir Brown. These assemblies dive into various aspects of the arts, but they only introduce the beginning of what could be explored individually.
To close out Black History Month, Pace will be hosting “The Cookout” that is open to all black families from Pre-first through 12th Grade. Taking place Feb. 26, “The Cookout” was created with the hope to bring the Pace community together through a shared identity. ”I am looking forward to Black History Month because it focuses on African American accomplishments, and some of the unseen things they went through,” said junior Terrence Kiel. These events will be eye-opening, introducing a new perspective to Black history, and creating great opportunities to look forward to.