The Celebration of Black Political Figures and Activists showcases notable African Americans who impacted society, including Malcolm X, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Claudette Colvin. Photo by Breanna Gordon.
Michael Jackson Tribute — Junior Ronel Chery
“I choreographed the Michael Jackson dance. I've always adored [Jackson] since I was a little kid, and I've always wanted to dance on stage like him. It was a big dream come true for me. I just enjoyed dancing a lot and I hope that I spread awareness. I'm very proud of it and I wish for the same outcome every year.”
"I Talk Black" Speech — Senior Noldine Belizaire
“I participated in the Celebration of Political Figures & Activists, Black Women Tribute, and reciting the poem 'I Talk Black' in this year’s showcase. We display the many layers of Black culture through providing dances and segments from and on multiple countries of the African diaspora and Black culture. As I was writing the script for the show, I wanted to find a way to bring light into controversial topics that are often overlooked and ignored at schools and communities like MSD which included the appropriation of African American Vernacular English. We found a way to remind our audience that Black culture deserves to be respected and celebrated, not copied and something to poke fun at.”