An annual celebration not just in the United States but in countries around the globe, Black History Month was first commemorated in 1926 when Dr. Carter G. Woodson initiated the first “Negro History Week” with the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) which he had founded. February was chosen because it contained the birthdays of two men who were already celebrated by the African American community – Frederick Douglass (February 14) and Abraham Lincoln (February 12). In 1976, on the 50th anniversary of the first Negro History Week, the month was officially established by presidential proclamation under Gerald Ford as “Black History Month” -- an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans recognizing their central role in United States history. It is believed to be one of the nation’s oldest organized celebrations of history.
Not just during Black History Month but all season long, The Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Cultural Campus celebrate Black artists who bring their passion, creativity, and talents to the Philadelphia region. This year, we asked the participants to answer one of three questions:
- How would you describe the impact of the arts on your life?
- How do you use your position/craft to affect progress (in our city, society, or beyond)?
- What advice would you give to a young person starting in your field?
"Study/learn the craft. Live the life of a craftsman and create/tell stories with truth and clarity that document/celebrate the human condition and you will bring unity with your insights and your art will help heal the world’s troubled spirits."
Eugene Lee
Actor, A Soldier’s Play
“My advice to young artists looking to get into theatre is to get involved with the art scene around you. In addition to reading scripts and performing, supporting other artists, and finding ways to keep those creative juices flowing while building your career are equally as important.”
Phyre Hawkins
Actress, Come From Away
“As you climb the ladder of success, don’t forget to reach back and pull someone with you.”
Jeroboam Bozeman
Dancer, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
“Ever since I was little, the arts have been a form of self-expression. The arts provide an opportunity for me to have a space to be myself and creative. The arts gave me the ability to find community and witness the beauty that comes from collaborate works. The arts have allowed me to be inspired and to inspire others and because of that I am beyond grateful. I think the beauty of this industry is that it has the ability to teach you new things about yourself. For me personally, I have learned the significance of unapologetically being myself, and by doing so I hope to show others that simply being yourself is more than enough.”
Terica Marie
Actress, SIX
“I would advise [students] to find a dance studio with a strong foundation and reputation. Attach themselves to a teacher/mentor that has their best interest at heart. Learn the basic fundamentals of dance training first, don’t skip steps. Read about dance, ask questions, stay focused. Know that discipline and hard work will carry you far and never forget what inspired you to choose dance.”
Kim Bears-Bailey
Artistic Director, PHILADANCO!
“Know that you are uniquely gifted, positioned and qualified to do the things that YOU are called to do. Your journey is just that: yours. So, soak up all the experiences you can, take pride in learning the art of skills in any given opportunity and make sure you don’t take yourself out of the race before it begins. Believe in yourself!!!”
Darian Sanders
Actor, Disney’s The Lion King
“So many mountains still left to climb but I am eternally grateful to the many warriors of equality and justice. Their journeys and sacrifices have paved the way for me to be able to maneuver a life that I am truly thankful for.”
Lisa Fischer
Singer
“As an actor, I’m able to show audiences that the same story can be told in 1,000 different ways by 1,000 different people. Sometimes a fresh perspective is all you need to create a more empathetic community!”
Britney Coleman
Actress, Beetlejuice
“I think it's important to understand that we all have our voice, our way. We might think we're helpless and that things are hopeless, but there are ways we can actually pass on positivity and righteousness and beauty and good. We should be able to look ourselves in the mirror and use our voices as musicians and artists to express what's wrong so we can help make it right."
Anthony McGill
Clarinet, Philadelphia Chamber Music Society
“TAKE YOUR TIME and don't compare. Everyone's journey into this evolving industry is so very different. Keep doing the work and keep showing up for yourself. You are totally allowed to be a masterpiece and a work in progress simultaneously.”
Tayler Harris
Actress, CATS
“The arts have had a huge impact on my life. The arts have broadened my view of the world and the people in it. I'm constantly playing roles that are so far from who I am or my experiences, and through learning these characters and their lives, I learn how to put myself in their shoes and to empathize. I also love how art encourages audience members to do the same. As a black woman, I can share my life or aspects of my life of my womanhood and blackness and broaden someone’s view of their world and the people in it that live drastically different lives from them.”
Amina Faye
Actress, SIX
“The arts for me have been educational, enlightening, and of course, entertaining. I was blessed to be introduced to fine arts early on in my life through some wonderful educators that had a deep passion and love for actually passing on those three things. I cannot imagine life without it.”
CHARLTON SINGLETON
Trumpet/Vocals, RANKY TANKY