SOUTH BEND, Ind. — In a groundbreaking celebration of Black History Month, Riley High School students led by senior Aniyah Veal, took center stage with an innovative program titled ‘Black History Month: The Past, The Present, the Future’. With the support of Principal Henderson and Sheneka Scales, a Restorative Justice Facilitator, the school hosted a day filled with performances that included poems, raps, and songs, highlighting the rich tapestry of African American history and culture. The event not only showcased the talents and insights of Riley High students but also extended an invitation to Wilison Elementary students, fostering a community-wide engagement with Black History Month.
Empowering Students Through History and Creativity
Aniyah Veal’s initiative to create a Black History Month program from scratch was a response to the absence of such an event at Riley High. Inspired by the need to celebrate Black excellence and the historical struggles and achievements of African Americans, Veal, along with Scales, put together a program that resonated with students across all grade levels. Performances ranged from original works by the students themselves to tributes to historical African American figures, emphasizing the importance of understanding and appreciating the past to navigate the present and future.
Community Involvement and Response
The program’s outreach went beyond Riley High School, incorporating elementary students from Wilison Elementary into the celebrations. This inclusive approach not only broadened the audience but also provided younger students with an early exposure to the significance of Black History Month. The enthusiastic participation and the positive reception from the students underscored the program’s success in creating an engaging and educational experience. Assistant Principal Jory Hardman highlighted the uniqueness of the celebration, marking it as a significant departure from previous observances of Black History Month at the school.
Looking Towards the Future
The success of ‘Black History Month: The Past, The Present, the Future’ at Riley High School sets a precedent for future celebrations and educational initiatives. It exemplifies how student leadership, supported by faculty, can create meaningful and impactful programs that educate, inspire, and unite. The hope is to continue this tradition in the coming years, possibly expanding the program to include even more schools and students. The initiative by Veal and the support from the Riley High community demonstrate a powerful commitment to celebrating diversity and learning from history.
The Riley High School Black History Month celebration reflects a significant step forward in recognizing and honoring the contributions of African Americans to the nation’s history and culture. By empowering students to lead and participate in these celebrations, the school has fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout history. As this program continues to grow and evolve, it promises to keep inspiring future generations to celebrate diversity and strive for excellence.
