Black History Month Celebration

Families from the Tuscaloosa Chapter enjoyed a variety of activities to commemorate Black History Month.

The chapter’s teens focused on identifying and supporting local Black-owned businesses, including longstanding enterprises and more recent establishments.

A programming highlight was a trip to 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL, where mothers and children from the Jetsetters grade group reflected on the life of Carole Robertson and learned more about the historical significance of the church. Afterward, the group toured the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and had a serendipitous encounter with families from the Tuskegee Chapter who were also visiting that day.

Back in Tuscaloosa, Mom Kenyatta Browne provided a living history lesson through her powerful portrayal of activist and community organizer, Ann Atwater, in a local theatrical production of “Best of Enemies.” Attendees from the chapter and community were reminded of the importance of learning from our history and continuing to stand up for what is right and beneficial for all children.

For Black History Month, the Tuskegee chapter took a road trip to Birmingham, AL. We visited the grave of Carole Robertson, toured the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and ended our history filled outing with fajitas and a little bit of friendly competition at Top Golf.

Ann Owen Gordon ORATORICAL Speak Up Speak Out •

In the spirit of our ancestors who used their voices to speak out in pursuit of freedom and justice, two of our Trailblazer Teens participated in our chapter Ann Owen Gordon Oratorical Contest.

Graduating seniors Freddrell Green III and Obayemi Black spoke on the topic “Black Excellence: Aspire to Build an Empire ” The event was held at the Youth Force Innovation Hub, managed by local poet and activist Lemuel “Life” LaRoche

Local judges Monica Miller, Stan Tucker & Michelle Carter had a tough choice as the teens both delivered inspiring and thoughtprovoking speeches. A running theme through both speeches was the need to build upon the foundation previous generations left behind and to leave something for future generations to continue.

Co-chairs PD Chery and Mom Kena hosted a fabulous event that left the younger Jacks and Jills in attendance eager to participate next year

Congratulations to our chapter winner Obayemi Blake.

On February 5th, the Greater Huntsville Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. held its annual Speak Up Speak Out (SUSO) and Ann Owen Gordon (AOG) Oratorical.