Black History Month 2025: How We Celebrated Leadership
We had so much to celebrate during Black History Month 2025! Curious about our school’s Black History Month programming? Find out how we celebrated diversity this year.
At St. Agnes Academy, we believe true community is built on understanding, inclusion, and celebrating diverse cultures. This February, our campus came alive with the spirit of Black History Month, thanks to the incredible efforts of student leaders, faculty, and staff who organized meaningful and engaging activities.
From dynamic performances to interactive workshops, our students had the opportunity to explore and honor the profound contributions of Black Americans to history, progress, and culture in the United States and beyond.
Rooted in our school's theme, "Building Belonging," the events fostered connection, learning, and appreciation. As we reflect on these celebrations, we are reminded of the importance of acknowledging and uplifting Black voices in February and year-round. Through these initiatives, St. Agnes remains committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels seen and valued.
Find out why our celebration of Black History Month 2025 was a powerful reminder of the strength found in unity and shared cultural experiences.
Voices of Black Youth: Leading the Way
The heart of this year's Black History Month programming was Voices of Black Youth (VOBY), a student-led organization dedicated to amplifying Black voices and fostering a sense of belonging at St. Agnes.
With support from their parent organization, ONYX, which connects Black families across the school, VOBY played an instrumental role in curating an educational and engaging event. Their leadership ensured that this year's celebration was a vibrant, immersive experience for all.
A Celebration of Culture and Creativity
The highlight of our Black History Month programming was an interactive assembly that brought the entire St. Agnes community together.
The event featured an electrifying performance by the Cultural Dance Team, whose movements told a story of resilience, heritage, and pride. Their rhythmic, high-energy routine captivated the audience and set the tone for an inspiring and engaging celebration.
Following the performance, students participated in a series of hands-on activities that connected them to Black cultural traditions and history in a creative and meaningful way. These included:
- Waist Beads: In many African traditions, waist beads symbolize femininity, spirituality, and cultural identity. Students had the opportunity to craft and wear waist beads and learn about their deep historical and personal significance.
- Murals: Art has long been a powerful medium for storytelling and activism. Students contributed to a collaborative mural that honored influential Black figures and movements, using visual expression to pay tribute to Black excellence.
- Freedom Bracelets: Inspired by the Underground Railroad and the resilience of those who fought for freedom, these bracelets serve as a tangible reminder of the strength and perseverance of Black communities throughout history.
- Quilts: In many African American communities, quilting has been used as a means of storytelling, resistance, and preserving cultural heritage. Students engaged in quilt-making activities that symbolized unity, identity, and the collective experience of Black Americans.
Spotlighting Black Saints in Daily Prayer
At St. Agnes, our celebration of Black history extends into our spiritual practices. Throughout the month, we honored the lives of Black saints and holy figures during daily prayer, reflecting on their faith, resilience, and lasting impact on the Catholic Church. Consider a few examples of these saints.
- St. Martin de Porres: A humble Dominican lay brother from Peru, St. Martin dedicated his life to serving the poor and caring for the sick, breaking racial barriers in his pursuit of justice and mercy.
- St. Augustine of Hippo: One of the most influential theologians in Church history, St. Augustine's writings continue to shape Christian philosophy and doctrine. His journey from a life of struggle to profound faith remains an inspiration.
- Pierre Toussaint: A formerly enslaved man who became a successful philanthropist and servant of people experiencing poverty in New York City, Pierre Toussaint is on the path to sainthood and is remembered for his deep faith and generosity.
By incorporating these figures into our prayers, we ensure that Black history is recognized not only in cultural and historical contexts but also in our community's spiritual life. Their stories remind us of the universality of faith and the importance of lifting all voices in our pursuit of justice and holiness.
Fostering Year-Round Awareness and Inclusion
While Black History Month provides a focused time to celebrate Black achievements and contributions, our commitment to diversity and inclusion extends beyond February. St. Agnes continues to support conversations and initiatives that uplift Black voices throughout the year.
Organizations like VOBY and ONYX provide spaces for Black students to connect, lead, and share their experiences. These affinity groups serve as a source of support and a driving force for change within our school community.
Through educational programming, service projects, and cultural events, these students help foster a campus environment that embodies our Building Belonging mission.
Looking Ahead Following Black History Month 2025
Our Black History Month celebration was a testament to the power of student leadership, community engagement, and cultural appreciation.
We are incredibly proud of the efforts of VOBY, ONYX, and all those who contributed to making this month both impactful and inspiring. Their work ensures that Black history and culture are acknowledged, actively celebrated, and woven into the fabric of St. Agnes.
As we move forward, we encourage everyone in our community to continue learning, listening, and embracing the richness of Black history. Black History Month 2025 may have drawn to a close, but the conversations, lessons, and celebrations will continue to shape our school for years to come.
To learn more about our student affinity clubs, contact Monica De La Cerda, the Director of Community Culture, at monica.delacerda@st-agnes.org. See how you can get involved to help grow our community!
