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JBSA News
NEWS | Feb. 29, 2008

Lackland youths celebrate Black History Month

By Staff Sgt. Kristine Dreyer Air Force ISR Agency Public Affairs

The Lackland Youth Center staff and Parent Advisory Board hosted their annual African American Heritage program Feb. 23 at the Lackland Youth Center.

The event kicked off with introductions by event emcee David Munoz, an invocation by Chaplain (Capt.) Christopher Cooper and the flag presentation by Buffalo Soldier representatives.

After the opening ceremonies, the Youth Center doors opened to a variety of activities that highlighted African American heritage.

"Black History Month is about sharing the history and contributions African Americans have made throughout the years," said Tech. Sgt. Ian Bernard, Parent Advisory Board president. "With that, we brought in guests to share the many different art forms from African American culture."

The five-hour event included wagon rides and displays from Buffalo Soldier representatives, jazz and poetry tributes, Tuskegee Airmen exhibit, a play by San Antonio playwright Bobby McMorris and a puppet show presented by Youth Center children.

Participants also enjoyed samples of soul food while they experienced the religious aspect of African American culture with dance performances by local church groups. 

The groups demonstrated stepping, praise dancing with sign language and praise miming.

"Stepping, dancing and miming can be found throughout the Bible," said Sharon Dixon, Drama Ministry and Praise Dance director at True Vine Baptist Church. "Since biblical times, we have used these art forms to celebrate, worship and praise. Religion is a big part of African American culture."

The event also included a presentation from Nevil Shed, former NBA player and member of the 1966 Texas Western Miners NCAA championship team.

Lackland children also had the opportunity to learn from Mr. Shed during a free basketball clinic he hosted.

"The event was a huge success," said Sergeant Bernard. "Thank you to all of our guests and also to the volunteers from the 37th Training Wing and 59th Medical Wing for making this event possible."