LIFE in the classroom: NHS presents Black History Month showcase

by Mark Jahne

Editor

Photos by Mark Jahne

Newington High School marked the end of the annual national observation of February as Black History Month with a special event that it is hoped will also become an annual tradition.

Naomi Stowers and Ty’Lasia Huff organized a Black History Month Showcase at Newington High School.

Student Naomi Stowers, a junior, and Ty’Lasia Huff, a senior, created the NHS Black History Month Showcase that debuted the evening of Feb. 27. It was designed to celebrate Black excellence, culture and history through an engaging and inspiring program featuring live performances, cultural presentations and community partnerships.

The Sankofa Kuumba Cultural Dance Group of Hartford presented a lively program about Black history and contributions to American life.

The Sankofa Kuumba Cultural Dance Group performed as well as the Hartford Proud Drill Drum and Dance Corps. Guests perused a curated Black history exhibit highlighting influential leaders and achievements.

“In the past, we’ve done decorations on doors and announcements,” Naomi said.

But this year they wanted to do more. Ty’Lasia said that adding other cultures to the mix was another new idea. Displays were set up in the hallway outside the gymnasium.

“We also have a live gallery walk of historic figures,” she said.

They included students representing abolitionist and orator Frederick Douglass, musician Jimi Hendrix and Henry Box Brown, who escaped from slavery in 1849 by mailing himself in a wooden create from Virginia to Philadelphia.

Guests received fact cards about these and other famous people of color.

Senior Josiah Sims portrayed abolitionist Frederick Douglass.

The two girls came up with the idea for this event this past September and suggested it to faculty member Lynn Roach, who in turn presented it to Principal Terra Tigno. There was agreement all around that this was a good idea and worth the time and energy it would take to make it happen.

Roach teaches finance courses and A.P. psychology.

Jason Amaring donned a costume and wig to portray Henry Box Brown, a man who escaped from slavery by having himself nailed in a box and shipped to Philadelphia.

“I went with their concept … this has all been created and led by the students. There is a lot of diversity in our schools,” she said.

The theme was “Black Excellence: Past, Present and Future.” She spoke about the decision to include exhibits highlighting Latin American and other cultures.

Khai Edwards told guests the story of musician Jimi Hendrix.

“The students made connections from Africa and slavery to those other cultures,” she added.

Among those in attendance was Superintendent of Schools Dr. Maureen Brummett. She praised the students for their efforts.

“I think it’s amazing. Very impressive,” Brummett said. NL

Displays reflecting other cultures included several South American and Caribbean nations.