MONTHLY SPOTLIGHT
FEBRUARY - BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Standing as One, Standing United
The REAADY Foundation believes in celebrating diversity, not creating division. The Performing Arts showcase all facets of the diverse world in which we live. With February being Black History month, we have asked friend to share their thoughts on what Black History Month means to them and how this can help unite us all.
February is a period of time of the year recognized to share and celebrate Black history. It is my belief that Black history should be discussed and celebrated year-round--to help explain and understand past, present and future historical events. First and foremost, Black history helps to tell the story through the lens of our forefathers and mothers and the struggles and challenges they faced throughout history. As a result of their struggles, there are countless lessons to be learned from our forefathers and mothers experiences. Their tireless and collective efforts, determination, vision, intellect and persistence to fight for freedom and change in the world have provided unlimited opportunities for African Americans to grow educationally and professionally and live in a much better world.
Dr. Quintin Bullock
President
Community College of Allegheny County
I believe the month represents an important, yet symbolic acknowledgement of the journey and evolution of the African American experience in this country. It is probably the most intentional and visible educational tool and reminder that is universally presented in providing holistic snippets of the many contributions, struggles and accomplishments that African Americans have made in this country. On a more personal note, given the social issues that we have been witnessing over the past year, I use it as a self-reflective moment to be re-energized on the critical work that remains and how I can continue to play my small role in providing post-secondary educational access to our historically under-represented, economically dis-advantaged and marginalized populations.
Dr. Evon W. Walters
Northwest Region President
Community College of Allegheny County
What does Black Dance History means for the majority of Black artists? As for myself I am very grateful to come behind leaders in the early days when we had artists like, Author Mitchell, (Dance Theater of Harlem) Alvin Ailey (Ailey American Dance Theater), Garth Fagan (Bucket Dance Theater), Josephine Baker, Kathrine Dunham, Joan Collins and Pear Primus who paved the way for black dancer to be viewed for their intellect and skills as dancers. These artists provided the platform for African American dancers to be able to compete in the dance world with their white counterparts and to be view based on their skills and contributions they bring into performing arts and not based on the color of their skin. We often spend most of our time on giving these artist great praise, but at the same time we need to praise this new generation of Black Artists that has developed behind these individuals, those who have picked up the torch and pressing forward to continue the work of their predecessors. We should also be giving thanks to individuals such as, Cleo Park Robinson, Aesha Ash, Missy Copeland, Virginia Johnson (Dance Theater of Harlem) Lauren Anderson (Houston Ballet) Karen Brown (Dance Theater of Harlem & Oakland Ballet) Debora Austin and Michaela DePrince for their contribution of breaking many bearers in dance. These are remarkable African American Women/Ballerinas that bring positive image to young girls of colors.
Marvin Askew
Executive Director