Walking through the halls, classroom doors and bulletin boards are decorated with vibrant displays that honor Black leaders, events, and movements. Through photos, quotes, and artwork, each display reflects the lasting impact of these contributions, highlighting their significance both in the past and present.
Francis Lewis High School celebrates Black History Month during February in many ways. These activities recognize and help students learn about the significant aspects of Black history overall.
“African Americans have always been the backbone of this country,” Dr. Natalie Byfield stated. “They served as the hands that built the White House, the minds that transformed agriculture, and the voices that deeply shaped American culture. Despite the fact that their contributions have fundamentally altered this nation, their rights, humanity, and voices are frequently called into question.”
“However, their determination, intelligence, and unshakable spirit endure, serving as a constant reminder that the struggle for justice is a promise we must uphold and is not something in the past.”
Dr. Byfield, a professor of Sociology and Anthropology at Saint John’s University, visited our school on February 11, 2025. She spoke about the importance of Black history, focusing on the Exonerated 5. Along with the assembly, our school found many other ways to celebrate this month.
“Well, this year I was very impressed,” Ms. Barnes said. “I must give credit to Sergeant Bennett, a military sergeant and teacher that works for the JROTC program. I really appreciate that he created this year’s play where students had an opportunity to perform. Not only theatrically, but also there was a dance, he wrote the play himself, and he pretty much orchestrated the entire event. I just thought it was very impressive.”
Beyond the performance, students found different ways to take part. The month allowed them to share their perspectives in meaningful ways as well.
“I think my favorite thing Francis Lewis does is that it gives students the opportunity to have a voice,” Mr. Smith stated. “That voice can come through different mediums like art, speech, and other lenses. I also think the variety of how much we’ve grown, in terms of technology, helps highlight our students’ strengths. I really like that we shine a light on that and celebrate it throughout the whole month. I enjoy seeing myself and some of these students, as well students from different cultures, come together to celebrate Black History Month.”
As Mr. Smith highlights how students are given a platform to be heard, Ms. Barnes emphasizes the many opportunities for their involvement.
“Typically, the Black History Committee starts in the month of October,” Ms. Barnes said. “This year, we advertised a Google Classroom that was presented in the SO. So, I’m hoping that with the turn of events of how successful it was this year, I hope many students will get involved again and will continue increasing by getting involved starting in October.”
Francis Lewis High School tries to ensure that every aspect of this month is recognized. There are countless ways for people to engage and reflect on its significance.
“I feel like Francis Lewis does a great job of giving us the space, environment, and tools, along with students who love to be included,” Mr. Smith explained. “It helps us reflect on the progress that has been made to this day, and also shows how important Black history is and that it shouldn’t be swept under the rug.”
