The Black Student Union on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus launched Black History Month with a special convocation February 8 in McGehee Auditorium.

Club leaders D’yasia Ford ’22 and Katrina Adewale ’22 shared an informative presentation with peers about Black History Month and how the club plans to celebrate it on the San Jose Campus in February.

“The best way for students and faculty to participate in commemorating Black History Month is to recognize the importance of the month,” the leaders said in their prepared remarks. “Black History Month is a time to acknowledge the many contributions and sacrifices made by African-Americans, in the past and present day.”

The convocation began with a performance of the Black National Anthem, “Life Every Voice and Sing,” by the Bolles Chorus. The hymn was created by Jacksonville native, James Weldon Johnson, an American, writer, musician and civil rights activist. Students shared history of the song and the importance of it. The convocation continued with a recognition of students, faculty and organizations within the school community who exemplify Black excellence.

"In 1926, Dr. Carter G. Woodson began a weeklong celebration that has since grown into an entire month dedicated to remembering the achievements, contributions, resilience and legacies of Black Americans at a time when it was not commonly taught," the students said in closing. "In celebration of this month, we hope that you all acknowledge not only the sacrifices and achievements of those before us but those of the present."

The BSU plans to host a Kickball Tournament February 15 and 17 on the Bolles Upper School San Jose Campus. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Boys and Girls Club. Also on the slate of events is a Black-Owned Business Expo on February 25. Additionally, the Upper School Bulletin has been including a Black History Month Fact of the Day and a Black History Month Figure of the Day, which are shared with the student body each day.