This week, Sierra Canyon School concluded a month-long celebration of Black History Month (BHM).
The Lower Campus witnessed a vibrant start to the month as members of the Upper Campus Black Student Union (BSU) engaged with our youngest Trailblazers during the morning carpool. The Divine Nine, a group of historically Black Greek letter organizations, and the Lower School Step Team captivated audiences on both campuses with dynamic step dance performances highlighting rich cultural dance traditions. Additionally, the Lower Campus welcomed a special visitor: Baba the Storyteller, whose captivating storytelling and skillful kora playing excited the audience as he shared rich African cultural traditions. In their art classes, students explored Nina Chanel Abney's inclusive art, crafting vibrant collages with diverse profiles using various shades of brown and black paper while also delving into the artistry of Derrick Adams to create mosaic paintings inspired by his renowned series, We Came to Party and Plan. The BSU once again crossed De Soto for book readings, introducing younger students to stories such as King of Kindergarten, Brave Ballerina, and Electric Slide and Kai. Lower Campus students also enjoyed a lively steel drum performance and a Caribbean food tasting.
On the Upper Campus, the BSU hosted a series of activities, which included the HBCU Alumni Panel, and joined forces with the DEI Cultural Celebrations Committee and Parents of Black Students to orchestrate a sweet potato pie tasting. Students engaged in Black History trivia on Tuesdays during Lab, while BSU advisors showcased their knowledge at the BHM Community Time assembly. The month's festivities culminated in the All-School Family Movie Night, giving students, families, and faculty a chance to unite and enjoy an evening together, which was punctuated when they spearheaded the club's annual Soul Food Luncheon with the help of parent volunteers the next day. The entire Upper Campus community was excited for this long-standing BHM event, with local southern-style restaurants catering the luncheon.
Sierra Canyon School's commemoration of Black History Month was a resounding success, fostering awareness, appreciation, and understanding of the diverse cultures that make up our community. Click here to watch a recap of the festivities.
Thank you to the Upper Campus Black Student Union, Parents of Black Students, and the ever-present DEI Cultural Celebrations Committee of Sitapa Downing (Phoenix '27, Evelyn '30), Renee Zeff (Liam '30, Dylan '32), and Michelle Malinovitz (Jagger '33, Zuma '35, Fox '37) for their incredible dedication and collaboration during Black History Month. Special thanks to the architects of this monthlong celebration, Amena Mebane (Mahailey '32), Shakira Martin (Kam '24, Dylan '32, Kash '36), and Chris Jean-Baptiste (Sebastian '32) for their outstanding leadership. Their combined contributions have been invaluable, and we are grateful for their commitment and efforts to assist us all in honoring this significant occasion.
#SCUpperSchool #SCMiddleSchool #SCLowerSchool #SCDEI #SCBSU
