Kent Place Celebrates 100 Years of Black History Month

On Wednesday, February 11, the Kent Place community gathered for the annual Black History Month Celebration, hosted by the Diversity and Equity Parent Group in collaboration with the school’s Community Life and Well-Being Office. This year’s program, marking 100 years of Black History Month, honored the cultural and historical impact of Black Americans through music, dance, food, and traditions.

Cultural exhibits, including flags, a History Wall, and a Wall of Heroes, deepened the evening’s sense of learning and pride.

Before the program began, families enjoyed an array of soul food favorites — from fried chicken and mac and cheese to collard greens and cornbread — dishes rooted in Black culinary traditions. The evening officially opened with a warm welcome from Dr. Galambos, followed by a moving rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing performed by Primary School students.

Kindergarten and First Grade Chorus performed In a Mellow Tone, the Hummingbirds brought energy with It’s Ragtime, and Primary School dancers presented New Day’s Lyric. Dance Ensemble and Chamber Dancers delivered a powerful interpretation of the poet Langston Hughes’s Let America Be America Again. Later, jumpers from the group “It Takes Three” wowed the audience with a double-dutch demonstration.

Educational spotlights woven throughout the evening explored the history of gospel music, the Divine Nine and stepping traditions — highlighted by a performance from members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated — and the origins of line dancing. The celebration concluded on a joyful note as dance instructor Suzanne Parchment led the community in The Cha Cha Slide and Boots on the Ground, enticing everyone to their feet.

The next DEPG cultural event, in celebration of Lunar New Year, will be held on Wednesday, February 25, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Great Room. All are welcome. We hope to see you there!