Jasmine Rivas

A Black History Month flag is set up in the Media Center to commemorate 100 years since the first celebration of African American week that ultimately turned into Black History Month in 1976.

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of Black people throughout history. At Rocky, Black history isn’t just celebrated during Black History Month, it’s celebrated year-round.

Black Student Union (BSU), is a club at Rocky that highlights culture and belonging, including Black History, Women’s History and other months throughout the school year. They are responsible for bringing speakers and cultural events to the school for students to learn and experience other cultures.

They are a club that welcomes Black students and allies where they can communicate about their experiences, making it an inclusive and safe environment.

“It’s a great place, I think, because the students can come together,” sponsor and advisor Mr. Jason Powell said. “They can talk about those experiences in a comfortable setting.”

BSU’s contributions to celebrating Black culture and traditions include connecting with other individuals, organizing events for student teen night at the Cultural Enrichment Center, and hosting speakers at Rocky during various monthly celebrations.

BSU hopes to leave a Black History Month legacy on the campus by building connections, and increasing the understanding of Black culture and successes.

“I feel like the legacy that I want Black history to show is just for people to be more culturally aware–to have this sense of awareness to what Black culture is, and the importance of community,” junior Alexis Nyambe said.

BSU helps to bring more awareness to overlooked parts of Black history and accomplishments, making sure Black history isn’t just celebrated in February, but is something celebrated all the time at Rocky Mountain High School.

“I wish that everyone knew that it isn’t just about celebrating in February,” Keri Calmes said. “We should be acknowledged for our achievements.”

Powell said that the Black community should feel proud of their heritage and education because Black Americans fought for the right to be educated–having pride in their education–and the resilience of the Black Americans that paved the way for future generations to have opportunities in learning, in jobs, and everyday life.

Keri Calmes believes studying Black history shouldn’t just be something that’s for a grade but part of a lively history of the United States that keeps in mind creations by African Americans.

“Those little history lessons that everyone gets to pay attention to are not just something for a grade; it’s something that is a part of our livelihood and a lot of things we have,” she explained. “It’s just to be reminded that it’s from African Americans.”

Alexis Nyambe believes the month of celebration can create a sense of belonging for Black students.

“I feel like it could create a sense of belonging for people who maybe aren’t more connected with their own culture as a black individual,” she said. “I feel like the power and the knowledge that is brought during Black History Month kind of reminds people of the power and the excellence Black people hold in society.”

If you feel like you want to know more information about Black history or another culture, Mr. Powell is a great resource here at Rocky.