- December 20, 2024
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The theme for the 21st annual Youth Black History Program was Backward Never … Forward Always!!!
Fifteen students performed in the program on Sunday, Feb. 18, at the African American Cultural Society’s Cultural Center and Museum in Palm Coast. The performers included five graduating seniors.
“Our focus is to help students learn more about their origin, their history, their contributions and their potential,” said Harriet A. Whiting, the chairperson of the Youth Black History Committee.
Edwina Mezo Brown and Jill Prime were the emcees for the program. Prime presented “The Theme.” Mezo Brown presented “The Beginning,” tracing the African origins of African Americans.
Sheldon Headley, Amina Taite-Headspeth and Maxwell Lee presented “The Taking.” The program also included poems recited by Aaliah and Nyla Reese, songs performed by Headley and a performance by the Mary McLeod Bethune Legacy Children's Choir.
“Historic Journeys,” sharing the stories of several celebrated African Americans who have made positive contributions to society were presented by Faith Robinson (Marcus Garvey); Jayda Williams (Al Sharpton); Taite-Headspeth (Val Demings), Grace Lawrence (Dr. Mae Jamison); Joy Prime, Briana Durry and Caden Williams (Josephine Wright); Myles Lee (John Lewis); and Ashley Harrison (Jon Batiste).
The program ended with a video presentation of “Running,” recorded by J. Ivy, John Legend, Slick Rick and Verse. Gary Johnson compiled the video.
Jeanette Wheeler, the Youth Black History Program's founder and longtime committee chairperson, said over the years the committee has raised over $100,000 in scholarships for the program's participants.