Black History Month, observed from Feb. 1 to March 1 this year, showcased stories of struggle, perseverance and resilience, inspiring future generations. Dallas Colleges’ Cedar Valley and North Lake campuses hosted events for students to share and learn from one another’s collective stories.
Many spoke about their paths to college and how their talents keep hope alive, reflecting their ancestors’ history.
The Office of Intercultural and Global Student Engagement celebrated 100 years of Black history with music, dance and a panel, “Wisdom from Grandma’s Porch.” There was also live African drum and dance performances at the third “I Am Black History” summit, inspiring transformation.
A dynamic Lift-Off series, “Music on the Yard,” was an engaging student event featuring live performances and creative expression. Cedar Valley’s SPACE adviser Eva Martinez and student SPACE Commander Alex Garza hosted the event to raise awareness, educate and celebrate the contributions of Black artists to jazz, blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and hip-hop, allowing students to sing and voice their expressions, marking their legacy to the celebration.
North Lake Campus hosted HBCUniverse — It’s a Different World. A transfer fair featuring over a dozen historically Black colleges and universities across the country, where students could discover transfer pathways to help shape their future toward their bachelor-bound journeys. North Lake’s president, Dr. Rick W. Smith, opened the event with remarks. “This event gives students a glimpse of the HBCU culture, and the common DNA is a shared desire to ensure all students feel welcomed at college, opening avenues to network and communicate with their peers.” Mountain View Campus President, Dr. Macario Hernandez, and Dallas College Board of Trustees member Kesha N. O’Reilly of District #7, were in attendance. Dancers from the Dallas Black Dance Theatre shared a social dance honoring a powerful journey through cultural history and spiritual Black expression.
A live step team closed the performance event, led by the boys and girls from the Competitive YouthStep program in Cedar Hill, Boyz N the Hill & Hill Side Divaz.
