MCC celebrates Black History Month through 'African Americans and the Arts' program
Meridian Community College will host its 2024 Black History Month celebration with the “African Americans and the Arts” program on Tuesday, Feb. 20, at 11 a.m. in the College’s McCain Theater.
Admission is free of charge, and campus and community residents are invited.
As a part of the program, Da Terrence Roberts, a Meridian-based professional storyteller, is a collector of tales worldwide but is most known for his African and African American folktales. He is described as a griot, a storyteller who weaves his stories like the web of his favorite character, Anansi the Spider. Roberts is a member of the Mississippi Artist Roster.
MCC staffers Kimberly Rush and Rhonda Smith will present two recitations; Rush will perform “I Still Rise” by Maya Angelo, and Smith will give “What If There Were No Black Folks: A Story About African American Inventors and Pioneers.” MCC Culinary Arts Student Simone Henry will offer a musical medley, and MCC Concert Choir members Chloe Smith and Jakelya Brown will sing. Others on the program include Tracy Walton, welcome; the Rev. Josh Harper, prayer; Kierston Hampton, introduction of emcee; Jimmyia Smith, emcee; Daniel Boles, pianist; Aaliyah Mendiola, introduction of storyteller; and Whitney Stevens, closing remarks.
Marlo Turner, MCC diversity coordinator and payroll manager, said the College is pleased to host this event. “With ‘African Americans and the Arts,’ we hope to honor the enduring legacy of resilience and creativity that has shaped our journey, painting a portrait of empowerment and inspiration for future generations,” she said.
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu/blackhistorymonth.