The Westbury Arts 9th annual Black History Month Celebration: Connecting the Community Through the Arts saluted Blacks in the Military: 1776 to Now. Through film and historical exhibits, the contribution of Blacks in the United States Armed Forces was shared.
NYS Senator Siela Bynoe (SD-6) made a special presentation to Mrs. Dianne Watson Capers, Daughter of famed Tuskegee Airman Lt. Col Spann Watson, a longtime Westbury resident. In addition to the collage of Lt. Col. Watson, Tuskegee Airmen Artifacts on loan from the personal collection of Elliot “Butch” Garrison were on display.
Danse Xpressions of Valley Stream, always a highlight, showcased the Black Experience through African Drumming and Dancing, as well as modern interpretive dance. New this year, the Westbury Jazz Collective not only performed a wide array of musical genres, but the band’s Director, Michael Carpenter, shared the history of the compositions and tested the audience’s knowledge of Black artists and songs. Exemplary Westbury Arts volunteer, Edith Joseph, was saluted for her long-time support of the Black History Month Celebration. She was escorted to the stage by Miss Long Island 2026, the lovely Geanna Koulouris.
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Local artist and Westbury Arts board member Marcia Odle-McNair curated the Long Island Black Artists Association exhibit. Members’ artwork, showcasing many genres, graced the lobby of Westbury High School, with many of the artists on hand to share their creative visions.
The annual Black History Month Celebration is not possible without the assistance of community volunteers. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – the Pi Pi Omega Chapter in Westbury — conducted voter registration and spearheaded advocacy of Family First policies and legislation, encouraging attendees to sign letters to the NYS Elected Leaders to support families, education and quality of life issues. In addition, PSEG Long Island has been a long-time supporter, and we are indebted to their employees for their sacrifice of service.
Following the program, attendees gathered for a community meal. This is a wonderful time of gathering and fellowship as neighbors and friends break bread together and reflect on the day’s presentations.
“Coordinating this event is truly a labor of love,” said Pat Jenkins Lewis, Westbury Arts board member. “To share the history, heritage and achievements of Blacks is an honor. Our history is an important part of American History. I love the way this celebration brings the entire community together, youth and community groups and Elected Officials join us as we share information in a festive and engaging atmosphere. We are proud to see how the Black History Month Celebration continues to grow each year.”
Special thanks to Julie Lyon, president of the Westbury Arts Board of Directors, Tiffany Blair, executive director, Shelene Thomas, who sang the Black National Anthem, and Hicks and Donohue as sponsors and Westbury Arts volunteers.
