Black History Month

February was Black History Month. We had quite the celebration at our school in honor of it. With the lack of diversity in the Midwest (I guess we'd all assume this to be the reasoning?), I've never seen a celebration quite like it!

The dancing, singing, celebrating was quite enjoyable. Definitely a first experience for me, but one I hope to enjoy again! The energy that was filling the room was enough to even get this teacher clapping and cheering along (this teacher who lacks all ability to keep a beat or bust any sort of move!). It was definitely something to hear the speeches of famous African Americans recited by students in all grades. The words of these important people ringing out in the voices of these young children sent chills down my spine and goosebumps across my skin. I was amazed as I watched young students dancing traditional African dances and expressing themselves through other forms of dance as well... (these students compared to my previous students CAN DANCE! I would have never fit in as a child because, as I already stated, I CANNOT dance! At all.) It's so interesting to see the kids get up and perform. It's less structured than what I'm used to seeing from my Midwest experience. The students seem to be more open to expressing themselves through dancing, singing, reciting poems and speeches. They are less fearful.

It was an empowering experience. If I do teach in a place where diversity is lacking, I must find a way to bring it into the school... to bring an experience similar to the one I had last month in my school and share it with the students... in some way or another. (Sadly, I won't be able to do any of the dancing... I'll have to find someone to help me out with that one!)

What did your school do to celebrate and honor Black History Month?