VALDOSTA — The Valdosta Early College Academy (VECA) hosted its Black history program on Friday, featuring performances and recognitions focused on the work African Americans have done in the pursuit of civil rights. 

Taking place at Valdosta State University’s Student Union, the theme of the program was “Strength and Legacy — African Americans and Labor.” The students at VECA had three weeks to prepare their parts for the event.

The Voices of VECA started the program by performing the National Negro Anthem. Throughout the event, attendees were captivated by an array of poetry and musical performances. Cahlil Stinson recited an original poem, “A Dream for Everyone,” while the VECA Band delivered a stirring rendition of “Sonnymoon for Two.” 

Tyrezz Bellamy and Timeka Ross brought Langston Hughes’ timeless poem “Mother to Son” to life, and Kennedi Johnson expressed the fight for freedom through an interpretive dance performance.

A skit performed by VECA seniors enlightened attendees on the contributions of African American railway porters. The Voices of VECA also performed “Glory,” a song reflecting the perseverance and achievements of African Americans throughout history.

A moment of special recognition honored trailblazers in Valdosta’s history, acknowledging the first African Americans to break barriers in their respective fields. Among those honored were Ruth Council, the first African American elected to the Valdosta City Council; Dr. Demarcus Marshall, the first African American and youngest person to serve as District 4 Lowndes County Commissioner; and Dr. Jerry Hardee, the first African American to hold a position on Valdosta State University’s President’s Cabinet. 

Dr. Moses Hardin and Dr. Shirley Hardin were among the first African Americans to teach at Valdosta State University, with Dr. Shirley Hardin serving over 40 years in education. Former City of Valdosta Fire Chief J.D. Rice was recognized as the first African American fire chief of Valdosta, while Laverne Gaskins was honored as the first African American attorney for Valdosta State University. Ingrid Hall made history as the first principal of Valdosta Early College Academy, and Samuel Allen was recognized as the first African American superintendent of Valdosta City Schools.

Following the recognitions, the VECA Chorus delivered a powerful rendition of “This Little Light of Mine,” a song deeply associated with the Civil Rights Movement. Kaden Freeman performed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. The program concluded with the Voices of VECA performing “Be Alive” and Jordan Davis’s monologue telling the story of James Brown, the “Godfather of Soul.”

Ditranna Walker, interim principal of Valdosta Early College Academy, spoke on the impact of fostering student success, stating, “Students who are given the right environment and the right push can go on to be very successful, whether they go to college, become entrepreneurs, or join the military.”