This month of February is the Black History Month to celebrate and remember important historical people and events in the history of African Americans. Thus, the Black Student Association (BSA) organized an “Essence of History Fashion Show” on the 9^th of February, 2012.

Great performances

It was a creative event where history was portrayed in a rather aesthetic way. Aside from the narrators telling the history and efforts of historical people, there were students who were dressed and presenting themselves like various African American historical figures, such as Malcolm X, Zora Neale Hurston and many more. This ‘Fashion Show’ like portrayal definitely added a wow factor to the event.

There were also dancing performances as well as a mind blowing performance by a prominent singer. Each performance was applauded. I couldn’t take my eyes off the stage for even a little while or else I’d risk missing the great feats performed by the dancers.

The finale took us all by surprise. We were told by the narrators to stand up as the President of the United States, Barack Obama and First Lady, Michelle Obama, are making an appearance. To everyone’s astonishment, students once again were impersonating the President and First Lady. Yet, we all stood up, showed respect and applauded the great presentation.

Ali (on the right) BSA President, Raven (third from the right), and his friends

At the end, the President of the Black Student Association, Raven, gave an inspirational speech; she said that great people from the past devoted their lives so that African Americans would be granted equal rights and power to vote. Their dreams have materialized and now it is the duty of every African American to vote so that the sacrifices made in the past are not wasted.

It was a great event, very enlightening and amusing. It was wonderful to see many African American students from the University of Arkansas sitting under one roof, remembering their past. All would agree that it was a great tribute to the African American legends of history.

– Ali Khalid