By Cash Caldwell
Paris, Tenn.–“Your voice matters” was the theme this morning at the annual Black History Month program at Henry County High School’s Gamlin Gym. A capacity crowd of students, local leaders and guests witnessed an inspirational presentation by more than two dozen student presenters, singers and guest speaker April Perry.
Perry is co-owner of Perry’s Barbecue in Paris and thanked Principal Michele Webb, Teacher Mercedes Spencer, the county and Paris schools and the W.G. Rhea Public library for supporting and recognizing Black History Month in Paris and Henry County.
Perry said, “Many schools do nothing for Black History Month.” She shared that her resolution for this year is to lead a life of purpose, excellence and success. Perry challenged everyone to “do more, volunteer more.” She asked that everyone “stand-up for right” and that we remember the words of President Barack Obama when he said, “Anything is possible…yes we can.”
Friday’s program included a brief history and performance of the historic anthem “We Shall Overcome” sung by a chorus of sixteen students directed by Teacher Pat Wofford.
Students presented significant artistic works and contributions of women throughout history including writer Maya Angelou, NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson, Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, Singer Aretha Franklin, Henrietta Lacks (whose cells are still being used in scientific and medical research nearly 70 years after her death) and a performance by Haley Wyatt of her poem entitled “A Letter to My Mother”.
The program concluded with a performance by Olivia Perry and Ejazz Tate of Common and John Legend’s “Glory”.
Photo: The guest speaker April Perry, far right, with the group of presenters and performers at Friday’s Black History Month program. (Shannon McFarlin photo).