The 25th Anniversary Virginia Black History Month Gala
THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY VIRGINIA BLACK HISTORY MONTH GALA
SATURDAY, 22 FEBRUARY 2025
THE RENAISSANCE ARLINGTON CAPITAL VIEW HOTEL
THEME: AFRICAN AMERICANS AND LABOR
The VaBHMA Mission & Directors
The VaBHMA President’s Welcome
The 2025 Black History Month Presidential Proclamation
Guest(s) of Honor
The VaBHMA Sponsor - TD Bank
Table of Contents
The 2025 Black History Month Theme: African Americans and Labor
Keynote Speaker
Opening Remarks
The Master & Mistress Ceremonies
The Opening Act - The SEED Falcon Theatre
Contest & Scholarship Winners
The Main Entertainment - Legacy - Performing “FOUR WOMEN”
The Front Cover: Yennenga – Princess Warrior
Yennenga was an African princess who lived over 900 years ago. She was known as a brave warrior and famous for her strong spirit. Today she is considered to be the mother of the Mossi people of Burkina Faso and is has become a cultural icon. Much of what we know about Yennenga today comes from oral tradition; stories that have been passed down through history. In some stories Yennenga is known as ‘Poko’ or ‘Yalanga’.
Yannenga was the daughter of King Nedega, who ruled over the Dagomaba Kingdom (which is now part of Northern Ghana.)
Yennenga’s three brothers all commanded their own battalions, and as she grew Yennenga also learnt the skills of a warrior. She was an expert horse rider and learnt how to use a javelin, spear and bow. She was a match for any of the men in her father’s armies, and soon she led her own command.
She led her army to success in many battles, especially against the neighbouring Malinké people. Across the land she became known for her skills in battle, becoming a feared warrior. She is sometimes known as ‘Yennenga the Svelte’, as she was very tall and slim; and sometimes mistaken for a man when she rode with her battlion in her battle clothes. She was so important to her father’s battle plans that as she reached the age where most of her friends were getting married, he banned her from doing so.
Yennenga continued to be obedient to her father, but she was tired of being in battles all the time, and wanted to fall in love and marry, like so many of her
friends had. No matter how much she asked, her father continued to refuse her this request.
One story tells us that Yennenga planted some wheat outside of her father’s house. When the wheat grew, instead of harvesting it she left it to wither and die. When her father angrily asked her why she had done this she told him that he was letting her rot, just like the wheat had done.
He wasn’t very happy that she had spoken to him so boldly and some stories say that he imprisoned her! Whether or not she was imprisoned by her father, very soon she escaped and disappeared into the forest on her stallion, dressed as a man so she wouldn’t be quickly found.
No-one knows for sure how long she was there, but at some point, she met a well-known elephant hunter called Riale. He soon discovered that she was a woman, and a skilled hunter as well. Soon romance blossomed and Yennenga and Riale fell in love and had a child. They called their son Ouedraogo, which means ‘Male Horse’ or ‘Stallion’, this was as a tribute to the horse which had taken Yennenga into the forest where she met Riale.
Ouedraogo grew to become an important leader and founded the Mossi Kingdom, which is why Yennenga is known as the mother of the Mossi people. Today in Burkina Faso, and across the region Yennenga’s legacy remains. There are statues of her, roads named after her and even an African film award which is known as the Yennenga Gold Stallion and has a golden woman riding a horse with a spear on top. The national football team of Burkina Faso is even called ‘Les Étalons’ which means ‘The Stallions’, after Yennenga’s famous horse.
Her story has inspired many, who see her as a symbol of a woman with a strong character and an independent mind.
Mission, Vision, Structure
Mission Vision Structure
The mission of the Virginia Black History Month Association (VaBHMA) is to provide community activities that highlight the positive achievements of African Americans through the art of dance, music, theater, and education
The vision of the VaBHMA is to be the premier event in the Northern Virginia area where people of all different cultures, backgrounds, and races can network, educate, and celebrate the rich heritage of African American history
VaBHMA is located in Fredericksburg. Virginia The Association operates as local chapter branches to encourage each Virginia city to Commemorate, Educate and Celebrate African American History
VaBHMA PRESIDENT
William (Bill) Jones, USMC (Retired)
VaBHMA Treasurer
Donna Coursey USMC (Retired)
VaBHMA Chief of Staff
Robert Hall, USMC (Retired)
Board of Directors
Donna Coursey, USMC (Retired)
Debra Graham, Army (Reserves)
Ticket Sales & Seating Coordinator
Debra Graham, Army (Reserves)
VIP Coordinator(s)
Kimberly Kyle, Jennifer Stith, Phebe Monise
Keynote Speaker Coordinator
Dr. Susan Williams
Quantico Chapter President
Lavonne Robinson
Media Coordinator
Felisha Washington Battle
Guest of Honor Coordinators
Bonita Patillo, Monique O’Neil, Sana Pretlow
Education Directors
Eugene Williams, Pamela Nephew, Larry Marks, Sr.
Marketing Director
Yvonne Reed-Carlock, USMC (Veteran)
Broom Jumping Coordinators
Angele Covington, Lisa Donald
Decorators
Betty Banks, Jennifer Stith, Wanda Hill Warren
Prayer Breakfast Coordinator
Tanya Alexander, USMC (Retired)
Scholarship Team
Dr. Sherry Springs, Xavier Richardson, Sylvester Rainey, Army (Veteran)
Greeters
Jon Newell, USMC (Reserves)
Donna Coursey, USMC (Retired)
Photographer
TEP Gardner
TEP Entertainment
Student Escort Coordinator
Pamela Lamar
Security Team
Dr. Shelton Ricks, Thomas Williams, Bill Hagerman
Entertainment Coordinators
Catrina Upshaw, Carolyn Stewart
Stage Coordinator
Betty Banks
Community Outreach
Nichole King-Campbell, Air Force (Retired)
VaBHMA 2026 Planning Directors
Darrlynn Franklin
Shelly Ridgeway Betz
Meeting Coordinator
Karen Graves, Navy (Retired)
GLAM Coordinator
Nicole Steele
Vendor Coordinator
Reedema Rock
New Membership Coordinator
Phebe Monise
The President’s Welcome
Good evening, everyone and welcome to our 25th Anniversary Virginia Black History Month Gala. In honor of our 25th Anniversary we have a wonderful evening of Black entertainment planned for you and your guests. I want to personally thank everyone that decided to come out for this year’s Black History Month celebration, our youth and members have been working really hard to ensure everything is perfect and done with the spirit of our ancestors in mind.
It was more than 25 years ago, when I was on active duty, and received orders to report to the Quantico Marine Base back in July 1999. Upon arrival, I could not wait until February to see what the base had in store for Black History Month. And much to my surprise, there was only “soul food” served at the Chow Hall, a choir which sang negro spirituals during our lunch break and a beautiful collaboration of church choirs which performed at the base chapel on Sunday. That was it! When the month was over, I remember thinking to myself “African Americans have contributed more to this country than just soul food and choir music.” It was then, that I came up with the idea of planning more intentional Black History Month activities like a Prayer Breakfast and Formal Gala in addition to the activities already in place.
Therefore, I mustered up the courage to speak with my chainof-command to get permission to formulate a group of like-minded individuals that would volunteer their time to educate the community on the many accomplishments of African Americans throughout history. I was given permission by the base leadership to request volunteers to help formally plan additional Black History Month activities. The next obvious question was who would lead us?
My initial thought was someone with way more experience in leadership and bringing people together. Someone who could motivate people to get involve. Like the prophet Moses talking with God on Mount Sinai, I had a lot of excuses on why I was not the person for the job. My thoughts were, maybe I could get it started and then the base would assign someone with more leadership skills. After hosting the first few celebrations, it was now time for me to retire from the military and move on with the rest of my life.
I remember telling the new Baser Commander, that it was time to find another person to lead, that I would be retiring and moving on. He said, “you can’t quit now, the families and the children that attend these events depend on you and the organization to continue leading this effort.” All I can tell you is that without thinking too much about the details I kept moving forward, and in the blink of an eye 25 years has passed since the first event.
All I can say is, there have been some good people along the way that supported, donated, encouraged and volunteered that made it all possible. So, sit back, relax and enjoy all the festivities, as we celebrate the amazing contributions of African Americans during Black History Month. Here’s to the next 25 years!
Bill Jones
President, VaBHMA
Bill Jones at the George Floyd Memorial
National Black History Month, 2025
January 31, 2025
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
Today, I am very honored to recognize February 2025 as National Black History Month.
Every year, National Black History Month is an occasion to celebrate the contributions of so many black American patriots who have indelibly shaped our Nation’s history.
Throughout our history, black Americans have been among our country’s most consequential leaders, shaping the cultural and political destiny of our Nation in profound ways. American heroes such as Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Thomas Sowell, Justice Clarence Thomas, and countless others represent what is best in America and her citizens. Their achievements, which have monumentally advanced the tradition of equality under the law in our great country, continue to serve as an inspiration for all Americans. We will also never forget the achievements of American greats like Tiger Woods, who have pushed the boundaries of excellence in their respective fields, paving the way for others to follow.
This National Black History Month, as America prepares to enter a historic Golden Age, I want to extend my tremendous gratitude to black Americans for all they have done to bring us to this moment, and for the many future contributions they will make as we advance into a future of limitless possibility under my Administration.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim February 2025 as National Black History Month. I call upon public officials, educators, librarians, and all the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.
Guest of Honor
James (Jimi) Page
James Page is the President and CEO of Page After Page (PAP) Office Solutions dba Page Global Technologies® and Co-President of PageXcel and has established a nationwide and global presence for over 30 years. Since its inception in 1991, PAP has generated over $170 million in revenues through equipment; supplies and maintenance contracts with hundreds of customers inside state, federal, government, and nationwide fortune 500 businesses. Mr. Page has decades of experience in helping private clients and charitable organizations better identify and manage their business equipment and maintenance needs. Page Global Technologies works within key areas such as IT core modernization, data platforms and intelligence, automation and AI, cloud services, cloud native services, and workflow management.Navy.
His Company
Founder and CEO James Page started Page After Page Business Systems Inc. in 1991 with just two employees in Washington, DC. Focused primarily on copiers and fax machines, James was able to expand capabilities to IT services, cyber security, and office automation. In 2018 Page After Page evolved into Page Global, and is an award-winning business with over 27 years of experience in the office solutions industry. We have expanded to over 20 full-time employees and proudly service all US States and Provinces.
It has always been our focus to improve the workflow capabilities of small and large businesses, and as we continue to grow, we are committed to creating lasting value to all of the companies and people we team up with. So connect with us today and become part of our story that continues to be told. n
Joan Trumpauer Mulholland
Her Freedom Rider mugshot has been called one of the most iconic in American history. By the time she was 23 years old, Joan Trumpauer Mulholland participated in over 50 sit-ins and demonstrations including the Freedom Rides, the Jackson Woolworth’s Sit-in, the March on Washington, the Meredith March and the Selma to Montgomery March. Her path has crossed with some of the biggest names in the Civil Rights Movement: Martin Luther King, Medgar Evers, Fannie Lou Hamer, John Lewis, Diane Nash and Julian Bond to name a few.
In 2023 Joan received an honorary doctorate from Tougaloo College. She is also the recipient of the 2020 Simeon Booker Award for Courage, the 2019 International Civil Rights Museum Trailblazer Award, the 2015 National Civil Rights Museum Freedom Award, the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated Annual Award of Honor and the Anti-Defamation League Annual Heroes Against Hate Award.
She has appeared in several books including “Coming of Age in Mississippi”, “Breach of Peace”, “We Shall Not Be Moved”, and, “She Stood For Freedom”. She has appeared on television and news programs like the “CBS Nightly News” and award-winning documentaries including “An Ordinary Hero”, PBS’s “Freedom Riders”, “Standing on My Sister’s Shoulders” and the groundbreaking film “Eyes on the Prize”. n
2025 BLACK HISTORY THEME EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AFRICAN AMERICANS AND LABOR
The 2025 Black History Month theme, African Americans, and Labor, focuses on the various and profound ways that work and working of all kinds – free and unfree, skilled, and unskilled, vocational and voluntary – intersect with the collective experiences of Black people. Indeed, work is at the very center of much of Black history and culture. Be it the traditional agricultural labor of enslaved Africans that fed Low Country colonies, debates among Black educators on the importance of vocational training, self-help strategies and entrepreneurship in Black communities, or organized labor’s role in fighting both economic and social injustice, Black people’s work has been transformational throughout the U.S., Africa, and the Diaspora. The 2025 Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor,” sets out to highlight and celebrate the potent impact of this work.
Considering Black people’s work through the widest perspectives provides versatile and insightful platforms for examining Black life and culture through time and space. In this instance, the notion of work constitutes compensated labor in factories, the military, government agencies, office buildings, public service, and private homes. But it also includes the community building of social justice activists, voluntary workers serving others, and institution building in churches, community groups, and social clubs and organizations. In each of these instances, the work Black people do and have done have been instrumental in shaping the lives, cultures, and histories of Black people and the societies in which they live. Understanding Black labor and its impact in all these multivariate settings is integral to understanding Black people and their histories, lives, and cultures.
Africans were brought to the Americas to be enslaved for their knowledge and serve as a workforce, which was superexploited by several European countries and then by the United States government. During enslavement, Black people labored for others, although some Black people were quasi-free and labored for themselves, but operated within a country that did not value Black life. After fighting for their freedom in the Civil War and in the country’s transition from an agricultural based economy to an industrial one, African Americans became sharecroppers, farm laborers, landowners, and then wage earners. Additionally, African Americans’ contributions to the built landscape can be found in every part of the nation as they constructed and designed some of the most iconic examples of architectural heritage in the country, specifically in the South.
Over the years to combat the superexploitation of Black labor, wage discrepancies, and employment discrimination based on race, sex, and gender, Black professionals (teachers, nurses, musicians, and lawyers, etc.) occupations (steel workers, washerwomen, dock workers, sex workers, sports, arts and sciences, etc.) organized for better working conditions and compensation. Black women such as Addie Wyatt also joined ranks of union work and leadership to advocate for job security, reproductive rights, and wage increases.
2025 marks the 100-year anniversary of the creation of Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and Maids by labor organizer and civil rights activist A. Philip Randolph, which was the first Black union to receive a charter in the American Federation of Labor. Martin Luther King, Jr incorporated issues outlined by Randolph’s March on Washington Movement such as economic justice into the Poor People’s Campaign, which he established in 1967. For King, it was a priority for Black people to be considered full citizens.
The theme, “African Americans and Labor,” intends to encourage broad reflections on intersections between Black people’s work and their workplaces in all their iterations and key moments, themes, and events in Black history and culture across time and space and throughout the U.S., Africa, and the Diaspora. Like religion, social justice movements, and education, studying African Americans’ labor and labor struggles are important organizing foci for newinterpretations and reinterpretations of the Black past, present, and future. Such new considerations and reconsiderations are even more significant as the historical forces of racial oppression gather new and renewed strength in the 21st century.
ASALH MISSION
To promote, research, preserve, interpret and disseminate information about Black life, history and culture to the global community.
Introduction of the Keynote Speaker
Miss Sierra-Leone Saunders - Miss Black Virginia 2025 USA
Ms. Sierra Leone Sanders is a senior at Norfolk State University and originally from Beaumont, Texas, by way of New Orleans, Louisiana.
She is an Exercise Science Major with a concentration in Kinesiotherapy, aspiring to become a Physician’s Assistant (PA) with the hopes of making significant contributions to the care and research of rare pathologies in Black Women.
Currently, she is working as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant after recently earning her certification while an undergrad in college.
Sierra Leone recently completed her reign as Miss Norfolk State University 2023-2024 and is honored to be Miss Black Virginia USA 2025.
She is a passionate advocate for visible and invisible disabilities, with a particular emphasis on Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) awareness. The Miss Black USA pageant empowers women of color to become role models, leaders, and community advocates, and Sierra Leone is proud to embody these values.
In her free time, Sierra Leone enjoys teaching as a Ballet Instructor for the Pink Pearls Dance Company in Norfolk, Virginia, and taking classes at Ballet Virginia. She is passionate about pageantry and was recently crowned 2nd runner-up to the Miss National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame.
Additionally, she loves content creation, fishing, actively participating in various school organizations, volunteering in her community, and spending quality time with family and friends.
She lives by the scripture: Mark 11:24, “Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe you have received it, and it will be yours.”
You can support Ms. Saunder’s journey to the National Crown on 2-3 August 2025 as Miss Black USA Pageant at her gofundme site at https:// gofund.me/078e5c03. n
Opening Remarks
Ms Cashawn Thompson — Author, Teacher, Speaker & The Mother Of The #Blackgirlmagic Movement
CaShawn Thompson is a proud third-generation native of Washington, D.C. She is an early childcare development expert, educator, trained doula, and author.
Today, CaShawn is a well-known social media influencer in Washington, DC. She is also a writer who started writing about beauty and lifestyle topics on her award-winning blog, Little Dirty Pretty Things. Goodnight, Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Real-Life Tales of Black Girl Magic, contains in collaboration with Rebel Girls, Inc. Ms. Thompson created “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Real-Life Stories of Black Girl Magic”, stories written by four talented Black women, including vibrant illustrations by 60 Black female and nonbinary artists. Ms. Thompson worked closely with Ms. Lily Workneh, an L.A.-based journalist whose credits include The Huffington Post and NBC News. Rebel Girls, Inc. is dedicated to creating space for a diverse array of women and girls to give voice to stories of their culture and educate girls worldwide, and Ms. Thompson is honored to have been a part of such a phenomenal project.
CaShawn is also a Black Cultural Pioneer, creating the concept of “Black Girls Are Magic,” which sprung from her life as a little girl growing up with her mother, grandmother, and aunts. Black Girls Are Magic became wildly popular in 2013 after CaShawn began using the phrase online (which was later shortened to the hashtag #BlackGirlMagic) to uplift and praise Black women’s accomplishments, beauty, and other outstanding qualities.
CaShawn enthusiastically believes in the phenomenal power and skills that all Black women and young girls possess. She believes Black women are the original influencers of culture worldwide and the mother of all things good. She believes Black women and young girls have contributed so much to this country and always seem to improve things. Therefore, Black girls and their magic deserve to be revered, celebrated, exalted, respected, and admired for their contributions. This is the message that CaShawn wants to spread as an advocate for black women through her blogging, speaking engagements, and social media content, thus creating a space for other women just like her to excel in their professional careers.
Her book reviews on “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Real-Life Tales of Black Girl Magic.”
“The ultimate inspiration for rebel girls-in-the-making.”
— Denene Millner, New York Times bestselling author and publisher of Denene Millner Books.
“The book is a reminder for Black girls everywhere to be free-spirited, rebellious, and ultimately, their boldest, most courageous self.” — Glory Edim, Founder at Well Read Black Girl.
“A visual celebration of Black women from around the world, these pages vividly showcase various contributions and cultures. I’m glad this book exists for a new generation of Black girls.”
— Tarana Burke, founder of the #MeToo movement.
“If only I had this book to help lay a blueprint for my dreams when I was a kid, I imagine the roadblocks society placed in my path wouldn’t have been so intimidating to take on”
— Taryn Finley, Editor of HuffPost Black Voices
“There’s nothing better than being reminded of how magical and magnificent it is being a Black woman. And that we just keep getting doper!” — Julee Wilson, Beauty Director at Cosmopolitan
CaShawn will have her book on sale at the gala for purchase and personal endorsements. n
The Mistress of Ceremony
LeAnn White
Ms. LeAnn White is a proud Northern Virginia native who has truly made an incredible impact since starting her career in banking straight out of high school. From her beginnings as a bank teller to her impressive role as Assistant Vice President (AVP), and Business Development Officer managing over $10 million, LeAnn has navigated the financial world with skill and perseverance. Her firsthand experience with the challenges faced by Black-owned businesses in accessing capital ignited her passion for service and commitment to making a difference.
LeAnn’s journey took an exciting turn when she joined the Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce (NVBCC). Initially stepping in as a sponsor for her financial institution, she quickly became an influential Events Chairperson, curating impactful programming and events. Her exceptional leadership led her to the board of directors, and she now shines as the Executive Director of the NVBCC.
In her dynamic role, LeAnn has orchestrated over 100 events and spearheaded the launch of the chamber’s flagship Elite Leadshare—a vibrant monthly networking event that connects local business owners and professionals. She also played a crucial role in developing the Economic Evolution Accelerator Program, funded by the Small Business Administration (SBA), which empowers 100 Black-owned businesses with essential growth tools.
Under her visionary leadership, the NVBCC has flourished, growing by 20% in less than a year—a testament to her commitment to nurturing a thriving Black business community in Northern Virginia.
Beyond her achievements at the NVBCC, LeAnn contributes her expertise as a board member of Virginia Career Works and the Interagency Council for the State of Virginia. She is also a former Secretary of the Fauquier County NAACP and an Ambassador for the Hylton Performing Arts Center.
A devoted mother of three—Isaiah, Jasmine, and Noah—LeAnn’s boundless energy and passion for helping others continue to inspire everyone around her. Her dedication to connecting individuals with the resources they need to succeed is truly remarkable and a testament to her dedication to the success of minority businesses in Northern Virginia. n
The Master of Ceremony
Hector S. Vasquez
Mr. Hector S. Vasquez, III was born and raised in Essex County, New Jersey to Lois Hill-Vasquez and the late Hector S. Vasquez, Jr. His childhood was filled with multiple extracurricular activities such as sports, scouting (Life Scout), and volunteerism. One month after graduating from high school, Mr Vasquez decided to take the Oath of Enlistment and serve in the United States Army.
For over 21 years, he faithfully served our country as a Military Intelligence professional along with multiple other military duties within the US Army.
Mr. Vasquez’ stateside and overseas assignments/duty stations are numerous; including war-time deployments in support of Operation DESERT SHIELD/STORM, Operation ENDURING FREEDOM; and Operation IRAQI FREEDOM (two deployments). His final assignment was in the Washington DC area where he retired at the rank of Chief Warrant Officer – Four (CW4).
Mr. Vasquez served in several engineering positions from an Engineering Team Member matriculating to a Subject Matter Expert (SME) and later a Senior Manager of a team of engineers from entry-level journeymen to the highest levels of expertise.
Today, Mr. Vasquez is a Systems Engineer Consultant supporting the US Department of Defense/Intelligence Community, providing automated solutions to our nation’s toughest intelligence problems.
Mr. Vasquez received his baccalaureate degree in Information Systems Management from Wayland Baptist University. Some of his military education includes the U.S. Army Warrant Officer Staff Course, U.S. Army Contracting Officers Representative (COR) Course, US Army Drill Sergeant School, and multiple courses with the Defense Acquisition University (DAU), Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
Mr. Vasquez is also well-known for his passionate service to our local community and his nonprofit work wherever he was stationed. While living in Atlanta, he served as an Assistant Scoutmaster for a Boy Scout Troop which provided lifesaving skills to 15 boys each year.
For the last 13 years, Mr. Vasquez served as a volunteer Chief Officer of Election for his local voting precinct in northern Virginia. He is a Prince Hall, ThirtyThird Degree Mason, and a Shriner known for their charitable work in supporting organizations like NAACP, Legal Defense Fund, United Negro College Fund and many others. He is also an active, life member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated.
Mr. Vasquez has been married to his high school sweetheart, Keisha Vasquez for over 34 years. They have one son (DyShun) and daughter-in-law (Whitney), three daughters (Ashley, Al-Nisa, and Aaliyah), and six grandsons.
For the past 12 years, Mr. Vasquez and his wife Keisha have been members and avid supporters of the Virginia Black History Association both vital to our longevity and success. n
Keynote Speaker
Erika Alexander
Erika Alexander is an actress, trailblazing activist, entrepreneur, creator, producer, director and one of the country’s boldest, most daring, and powerful voices. Recognizing the power of storytelling, Erika believes that though content must be entertaining, stories have tremendous capacity to create impact and meaningful social change. As co-founder of Color Farm Media, she is on a mission to bring greater equity, inclusion, and diverse representation to both media and electoral politics.
Erika is beloved for her iconic acting roles including:
• Maxine Shaw (LIVING SINGLE, garnering two NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Actress/Comedy Series)
• Detective Latoya (GET OUT)
• Cousin Pam (THE COSBY SHOW)
• Perenna (BLACK LIGHTNING)
• Linda Diggs (WUTANG: AN AMERICAN SAGA)
• Barb Ballard (RUN THE WORLD; nominated for NAACP Best Guest Actor)
• Meredith Lockhart (SWIMMING WITH SHARKS)
• Abby Keegan (SHINING GIRLS, the critically-acclaimed Apple+ series with Elisabeth Moss)
• Miss Carmen (EARTH MAMA which premiered at Sundance 2023)
Erika has recently stepped boldly into the arena of film director, with her debut film THE BIG PAYBACK, codirected with Whitney Dow. The film debuted at Tribeca Festival and premiered on PBS on MLK Day 2023. The documentary chronicles the story of the first reparations bill for African Americans in U.S. history.
She is also creator/writer/producer of 2022 Audible Original’s Best True Crime Series and DuPont Columbia award-nominee, FINDING TAMIKA, and producer of the three-time, Emmy-nominated Best Documentary and winner, NAACP Best Documentary, JOHN LEWIS: GOOD TROUBLE.
Her upcoming projects include THE UNTITLED NOVELIST project, directed by Cord Jefferson; with Jeffrey Wright, Tracy Ross, Sterling K. Williams and Issa Rae.
A critical thought leader on racial and gender equity and leadership, she serves as a board member for One Fair Wage and is highly involved with social and racial justice organizations including The Poor People’s Campaign, Color of Change, NAACP, UNCF, among others. n
Keynote Speaker | Interviewer
Wycessa Small, J.D.
Ms. Wycessa Small, affectionately called Penny by family, was born in Newark, New Jersey, and a 1986 graduate of Boston University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics.
Thereafter, she attended the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, earning her Juris Doctorate (J.D.) degree in 1989. She served as a Law Clerk at Lofton and Wolfe Law Firm in New Jersey as well as Buchanon Ingersoll, PC & Law student intern at Buchanon Ingersoll Law Firm in Pennsylvania.
After law school, she was accepted as a Governor’s Fellow in the State Department of Personnel in Trenton, New Jersey, and subsequently pursued a career in the Appellate Practice Section for several years. She also held positions in the New Jersey Judiciary as a Team Leader in the Civil and Criminal Superior Courts respectively in Central and Hudson Counties.
Ms. Small later transitioned into Adult Education and worked as a consultant for various schools, churches, and local communities. She served as Team Leader Liaison for the Military Family Support Group at Fort Hood, Texas (now known as Fort Cavazos) and led the creation of the Family Support Group for the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Army Recruiting Command. She has served on numerous committees and as a Board Member in organizations across Texas, New Jersey, and Virginia.
Additionally, she served as Parent Teacher Association President for several years at Walker Grant Middle School in Fredericksburg, Virginia. She served a term as Vice President on The Parent Board of the James Farmer’s Scholars Program affiliated with the University of Mary Washington. She also mentored students in the Gladys P. Todd Academy Program, under the auspices of the late Doris Buffet, where she supported students who graduated with both their associate’s degrees and high school diplomas simultaneously.
Ms. Small is a forty-year member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated having been initiated Fall 1984 in Epsilon Chapter at Boston University. She is currently an active member of the Xi Upsilon Omega Chapter in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and a Charter Member of the Greater Rappahannock (VA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. She is also a member of The National Bar Association. She presently serves on the Fredericksburg Police Department’s Civilian Advisory Panel.
She is also a member of Strong Tower Church in Fredericksburg, Virginia. She most enjoys giving back to the community and assisting and inspiring young people to reach their goals and dreams.
Ms. Small is married to Retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Larry Small and is the doting and loving mother of her one and only son, Matthew Small, who is a 2022 West Point Graduate now serving as a First Lieutenant in Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Notably, Matthew was the first male recipient to win the first-place Children’s Writing Contest (5th grade) at the Virginia Black History Month Gala (2010) and also won first place for the James Farmer Scholarship (2017).
Ms. Small has been an avid supporter of the Virginia Black History Month Gala for many years, both financially and through behind-the-scenes assistance. n
Broom Jumping
Rev. Dr. Roslyn M.
Brock
Roslyn M. Brock is an internationally recognized civil rights leader, health equity advocate, and social justice champion. As Chief Global Engagement Officer at Abt Global, a premier consulting and social impact research firm. She also serves as an Associate Minister at the historic Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, bringing a faith-based lens to her commitment to justice and community empowerment.
In 2010, Brock made history as the youngest person and only the fourth woman elected Chairman of the NAACP National Board of Directors. She served with distinction and now holds the title of Chairman Emerita.
With over 30 years of experience in public policy, advocacy, and community engagement, she has spearheaded initiatives on health equity, gender equality, youth leadership development, marriage equality, environmental and climate justice, and faith-based social justice movements, including the Black Church and HIV.
A lifelong learner, Brock holds a B.S. in Business Administration, from Virginia Union University, along with master’s degrees in health services administration, The George Washington University, Business Administration, Northwestern University, and Divinity Virginia Union University. She was awarded four honorary doctorate degrees from Virginia Union University, the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, Smith College, and Livingstone College.
Her leadership extends to numerous national organizations, including serving as Board Trustee at the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) and Former Trustee at The George Washington University. She’s held leadership roles in several national organizations, including Former Chair, International Connection/Social Action Committee, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Former Vice Chair, Women’s Caucus, Comcast NBCUniversal Joint Diversity Advisory Council; Former Chair, Board of Advisors, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University; Former Trustee, Catholic Health Association of the United States.
Brock is a Life Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA) and the NAACP, as well as a dedicated member of The Links, Incorporated. Widely recognized for her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to justice, Brock lives by the African proverb: “Care more than others think is wise, risk more than others think is safe, dream more than others think is practical, and expect more than others think is possible.” Her trademark motto boldly affirms: “Courage Will Not Skip This Generation.” n
The Black National Anthem
Marquita Raley-Cooper
Marquita Raley-Cooper is a dynamic opera singer known for her powerful voice, captivating stage presence, and passion for storytelling through music. With a versatile repertoire that spans classical opera, spirituals, and contemporary works, Marquita brings depth and emotion to every performance.
Her journey in music began at an early age, with her talent honed through rigorous training and a commitment to excellence. She has graced stages both nationally and internationally in such venues as Carnegie Hall, Alice Tully, Jazz at Lincoln Center, The New York Philharmonic, and The Kennedy Center, earning acclaim for her ability to connect with audiences and bring characters to life with authenticity and grace.
Oratorio works include, George Frideric Handel’s Messiah, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Requiem, and Ludwig von Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. Operatic roles include Donna Elvira (Don Giovanni), Baba the Turk (The Rake’s Progress), Dorabella (Cosi fan tutte), Marcellina (Le nozze di Figaro), 2nd & 3rd Lady (Die Zauberflöte), Anne (The Mother of Us All), Gianetta (L’elisir d’amore), Fountain Voice (Ainadamar), Martha (Iolanta), and Madame Flora (The Medium), Delilah (Samson et Delilah) with Venture Opera, Philadelphia Opera and Chautauqua Opera.
Marquita’s dedication to her craft is matched by her commitment to inspiring others. As a mentor and advocate for the arts, she works to create opportunities for emerging artists and promote the transformative power of music in communities.
Ms. Raley-Cooper holds degrees from The Juilliard School (BM) and The Curtis School of Music (MM). n
Alfred Street Baptist Church - Girl Scout Troop - Camisha Parker
Camisha Parker is a dedicated and accomplished Girl Scout leader with over 20 years of impactful volunteer service. In Spring 2024, she was honored with the 20-Year Volunteer Service Award pin, reflecting her enduring commitment to the Girl Scout mission of “building girls of courage, confidence, and character.” As a lifetime Member of Girl Scouts, Camisha embodies the values of the Girl Scout Law, inspiring young women to lead with integrity and purpose.
Camisha’s influence extends beyond her troops. She represented Service Unit 60-8 as a delegate at the 2024 Annual Meeting for the Girl Scout Council of the Nation’s Capital. She also serves on the Service Unit Executive Team as an adult educator and travel coordinator, facilitating training for Girl Scout volunteers and organizing enriching travel experiences for Scouts throughout the region.
Camisha also encourages holistic development by supporting Scouts through badge work in financial literacy, STEM exploration, outdoor adventure, entrepreneurship, and life skills. Her vision for empowering girls includes cultural exposure and global experiences. She organized a visit to the Japanese Information and Culture Center, where Scouts explored Japanese traditions and language in preparation for a Summer 2024 trip.
Camisha led a group of 28 Girl Scouts and volunteers on a transformative nine-day cultural immersion trip to Japan, visiting Tokyo, Yokohama, Hiroshima, and Osaka. Looking ahead, her troops are planning an exciting trip to London and Paris in the Summer of 2026 and are actively fundraising to make this dream a reality.
In her professional capacity, Camisha is the Executive Director of the Northern Virginia Center of Virginia State University, an initiative focused on bringing VSU’s satellite presence as a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to the Northern Virginia Region. She is a native of Durham, NC, and has a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and a Master of Science degree in Mathematics.
Camisha is a Ph.D. candidate in Educational Leadership with a focus on Community College Leadership. Her research examines pathways and pipelines for equity-minded leadership development and preparation. Last but certainly not least, Camisha is a proud mother of her two beautiful daughters, Cashawana and Camdyn.
For more information on the Alfred Street Baptist Church Girl Scout Troop contact Ms. Camisha Parker at girlscoutstravel60.8@gmail.com n
The Opening Act
Dr. LaMar Bagley & The SEED Falcon Theatre
Dr. LaMar Bagley has been working in the creative and performing arts for over 30 years as an actor, technician, producer, director, arts administrator, arts educator and arts integration specialist. For the last 18 years he has served as the Producing Artistic Director of the internationally recognized SEED Falcon Theatre at The SEED School of Washington, D.C., where he also works as a school administrator. The American High School Theater Festival recognized The SEED Falcon Theatre as one of the top programs in the nation (2016, 2019, 2020) and invited Dr. Bagley and the program to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival representing the United States. His work in arts education was also recognized by Music Theater International in 2018 with the Freddie G Fellowship; an honor bestowed upon America’s top arts educators producing musical theatre for youth.
In January 2021, Dr. Bagley was recognized as Arts Educator of the Decade, in the D.C. region, by the 2020 Broadway World Regional Awards. In Spring 2023, Dr. Bagley was one of four teachers, from across the nation, invited to The White House to be recognized by Ford’s Theatre Society, President Biden, and First Lady Dr. Biden for his sacrifice, selflessness, and compassion as teacher and his commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education.
The SEED Falcon Theatre
A program designed for the promotion and development of the creative and performing arts. Scholar-artists receive instruction and coaching from a resident faculty of artist-educators and are exposed to the various forms of performing (theater, music, dance, and acting) and fine and visual art forms through education, production, competition, and entertainment. The program has been recognized by the Junior Theater Festival, in Atlanta and Sacramento, on multiple occasions for excellence in music, dance, acting, and ensemble work.
Their 2015 production of Lion King, Jr. received numerous accolades across the DMV and at the Junior Theater Festival in Atlanta and propelled the program into the national spotlight and extended the run of the production for nearly 6 months. Most recently, the program was recognized by Disney on Broadway as a School of Excellence and provided the exclusive rights to produce Moana, Jr. in April 2025. Additionally, the program was selected to perform in the Manhattan Concert Productions production of Anastasia at The Lincoln Center in New York City on February 17th. Interested in supporting through donation or learning more about The SEED Falcon Theatre you can email Dr. LaMar Bagley at seedfalcontheatre@ gmail.com. You can also follow the program journey on Instagram @ falcontheatre_seed. n
The Opening Prayer
About Our Pastor . . .
Pastor G. Ainsworth Thompson, affectionately known as “Pastor G”, is a visionary with a “cutting-edge” ministry for this millennium. In 1986 Pastor G accepted the call to preach the gospel while faithfully serving under the tutelage of Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr., at Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church in Washington, DC, where he labored for more than 25 years.
After serving faithfully for several years on Greater Mt. Calvary’s Evangelistic Board, Pastor G heeded the call to a new dimension in ministry and founded Mt. Calvary Church of the Rock which opened its doors on Easter Sunday in 1999. Pastor G, along with 13 founding members began worshipping at Rose Hill Elementary School in Alexandria, Virginia. In April 2004, Pastor G changed the church’s name to Church of the Rock Praise Factory to more precisely reflect its ministry persona.
Pastor G is a uniquely gifted and anointed preacher, teacher, and leader who possesses a profound love and passion for people and whose focus in ministry is on building and rebuilding the lives of persons who have been cast-down, cast-aside and cast-away. Pastor G is a trailblazing visionary who continues to make an indelible impression in the earth in ministry, and as a man. Pastor G is an Entrepreneur and business owner of the DC ChI Pie and a lover of all things food. He has a great passion for living life to the fullest and a lover of all things God.
Pastor G will celebrated 40 years of marriage with Lady Margaret E. Thompson on October 27, 2024. Together they counsel and instruct many couples on how to work at and succeed in marriage. They have two sons, Justin Grant (Crystal) and Jheremy Alexander (Jasmine) who both serve faithfully in ministry alongside them. They are the proud grandparents to Jheremy “JJ” Thompson, Jr and Jaxon Lee Thompson. n
The National Landing Business Improvement District (BID) would like to congratulate the Virginia Black History Month Association on 25 years of success in serving our community.
Scholarship and Contest
Winners
James Farmer Scholarship Winner
Ms. ZiMihrah Parker
James Monroe High School
Audrey Jones Scholarship of Excellence Winner
Ms Ava LaFond
South County High School
The Children’s Writing Contest Winner
John Henry Harris
Woolridge Elementary School
Guest of Honor
Ms. Viola Ford Fletcher
At 110 years old, Ms. Viola Ford Fletcher is an American supercentenarian who is the oldest known living survivor of the 1921 Tulsa race massacre. Mother Fletcher as she is often called was born in Comanche, Oklahoma, on 10 May 1914, the second oldest of eight children of John Wesley Ford and Lucinda Ford. She had four brothers and three sisters. Before moving the family to Tulsa, her parents were sharecroppers.
With her family, including all four of her siblings, she lived in Greenwood, a wealthy Black neighborhood of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Fletcher, then 7 years old, was in bed asleep. She woke to her mother gathering the family to urgently leave their home as the violence ensued in the streets. The families lost everything except the clothes they were wearing. Her family fled Tulsa during the massacre but eventually returned. In 1932, she married her husband, Robert, and the couple moved to California to work in the shipyards during World War II. After the war, she and her husband returned to Oklahoma, where they raised their three children: two sons and one daughter in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Fletcher worked cleaning houses, while her husband worked as a truck driver and at a filling station. She worked until the age of 85.
One hundred years after the killings, on May 19, 2021, she testified before Congress, “I will never forget the violence of the White mob when we left our home,” she said, “I still see Black men being shot, Black bodies lying in the street. I still smell smoke and see fire. I still see Black businesses being burned. I still hear airplanes flying overhead. I hear the screams.” Even today, Viola sleeps sitting up on her couch with the lights on.”
Viola Fletcher is an empowered woman and humanitarian who exemplifies grace, dignity, resiliency, perseverance, and pragmatism. She is a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister who knows how to move through challenging circumstances.
Viola Fletcher currently lives in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. n
Main Entertainment
Mrs Khanner Essix and “Legacy” performing the song “FOUR WOMEN”
Our Main Entertainment will be performed by Performing Artist Art Educator, and Mental Health Advocate, Mrs. Khanner Essix. For many years, Mrs. Essix has performed musical and theater performances across the DMV area to include the Inaugural Activities for former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama.
In honor of our 25th Anniversary Virginia Black History Month Gala theme; BLACK GIRL HISTORY, Mrs. Khanner, and her fellow theater performers (Ms. Ariel Frienly, Mrs. Brunie Soto Herring, and Mrs. Stacey Yvonne Claytor) will perform their classical rendition of the 1966 hit song, “FOUR WOMEN.”
The song Four Women; was written by jazz singer, composer, pianist, and arranger Nina Simone, and was released on the 1966 album “Wild Is the Wind.” It tells the story of four different African American women. Each of the four characters performing the song represents an African-American STEROTYPE in our society. Nina meant for these lyrics to focus on the challenging self-image issues held by many African-American women.
Despite Nina Simone’s intention to highlight the injustices in society and the suffering of African American women, some listeners interpreted the song as too stereotypical. They believed it drew on Black stereotypes, and was subsequently banned on several major radio stations.
It was not until the song was resurrected in 2010 as the ending credits of Tyler Perry’s movie “For Colored Girls” and again during the television special, “Black Girls Rock” in which vocalist Kelly Price sang the part “Aunt Sarah”, Marsha Ambrosius as “Safronia”, Jill Scott as “Sweet Thing”, and Ledisi as “Peaches” did the song take center stage and remain a vital part of our African American journey.
Her distinguished bio:
Mrs. Khanner Hancock Essix is a performing artist, arts educator, mental health advocate, and the forever Miss North America 2022. This D.C. Metropolitan native has been performing through song across the nation’s capital since the age of 9 on platforms like the National Cathedral, international embassies, and the White House for the inaugural activities of our 44th President of the United States.
Previous credits include: Lady in Blue in For Colored Girls, Judine in Hairspray, Crystal in Little Shop of Horrors, and Madame de la Grande Bouche in Beauty and the Beast. Beyond the stage, Khanner has utilized her gifts and talents serving as a voice for those silenced by mental illness and suicide.S he founded the Movement of Hope organization in 2016, to help diminish the stigma surrounding mental wellness while providing suicide prevention education for those in need. Combining her passion for arts and advocacy, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Music from Hampton University and a Master’s in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University.
Khanner is a proud member of Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity as well as Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. From arias to jazz, plays, and pageant appearances alike, Khanner is determined to make each presentation inspiring for all generations.
You can #KatchKhanner from March 12-April 27, 2025, in Jesus Christ Superstar at the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts! www.khannermilan.com n
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