Article by Phoenix writer Jazmeen Osae-Kwapong ’26
23 Kellenberg students united with the Westbury High School community to honor Black History Month at their 9th Annual Black History Month Jubilee Celebration on Saturday, February 28th. The theme for this year’s celebration was Blacks in the Military: From 1776 to Now, and this event gave the students an opportunity to appreciate the rich history and culture of the black diaspora.
The event began with a Black Americans in the Military presentation which included the showing of an informative movie that highlighted the significant and sacrificial contributions Black Americans have made to the U.S. military over the past few centuries. At the conclusion of the movie, a special salute was given to the Black veterans and active duty members of the military. The attendees also offered a tribute to a former Tuskegee Airman and Westbury local, Lieutenant Colonel Spann Watson.
The event continued with a display of the performing arts that are deeply rooted in Black culture. A band of musicians played jazz music attributed to African-American artists from the 20th century while another group played on traditional African drums. Members of the Westbury step team also performed a step routine for the audience, showcasing the diversity that exists within the art of the black diaspora. Victoria White, a sophomore and member of the One Heart, One Mind, Many Cultures Club, remarked, “It was fun to attend and watch the performances with friends and some of the girls from the step team.”
After the presentation and performances, the guests were served soul food — dishes such as fried chicken, collared greens, and mac and cheese — which has roots in African-American history and culture.
Outside of the auditorium, poster boards containing more information about the meaningful work Black military forces did for the country were on display. Additionally, works of traditional African art created by Westbury High School students were displayed around the lobby. Mrs. Delbrune, the chaperone and organizer of this visit, observed, “When you walked into the lobby, African and African-American art was everywhere, and it felt like home. The opportunity to see this show of culture was very important for the students.”
Collaborations with local schools, communities, universities, and professionals has been an ongoing priority for Kellenberg to expand its students’ exposure to information and ideas. Mrs. Delbrune’s collaboration at Westbury High School was a valuable addition to Kellenberg’s Black History Month celebration.
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