Black History Month at SVA

Written by Jared Stewart, Education Unit Manager
ScenicView's annual Black History Month celebration has passed, but we'd like to thank everyone who helped make it a huge success!  This year, the focus of the weekly assemblies was on SVA's Empowerment Statements.

Emily Uasila'a shared poetry and points from the life of Pulitzer Prize winner Maya Angelou, who taught us to "find joy in the journey", and showed that "I am worthy of respect and connection".

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Jared Stewart outlined the life of civil rights and black-pride activist Malcolm X, who exemplified "I am in charge of my future" and "I always have a choice", and showed how education can bring change and growth to all of us.

Chris Jordan knocked us all out with a biography of world heavyweight champion and ("greatest of all time") boxer Muhammad Ali, who showed a great example of "I know how my strengths and my weaknesses affect my life" and "I can do hard things." 

In the cumulating assembly, artist Marlena Wilding talked about her own journey and how "we need each other", and shared several of her most significant pieces.  Finally, we were privileged to hear from the extremely accomplished Debra and Harry Bonner, who discussed their life experiences, shared their talents for music and speaking, and told the stories of Frederick Douglass and Rosa Parks, which showcased the principle that "I have the flexibility to solve life's challenges", as well as all of the other Empowerment Statements.

Special thanks to Lita Little Giddins, who arranged and oversaw the entire month's activities, and led the weekly assemblies and weekly dance instruction.  ScenicView is so blessed to have her and her many talents here!