Children show deference in honor of black history

ON ARLINER YOUNG: At East Aiken School of the Arts’ Black History assembly, Mariah Posey talks about the life of Arliner Young, who, in 1940, became the first African-American woman to earn a doctorate in zoology. Rob Novit

East Aiken School of the Arts celebrated Black History Month on Friday, focusing on the efforts of Martin Luther King Jr. and many other prominent African-Americans.

Students Jason Hamilton and Danielle Songer served as emcees, announcing that the character trait of the month is "deference" - respecting those around us.

"It is also a great character trait for Black History Month," said Jason. "It is important for all of us to learn how to respect those around us, no matter the color of their skin, the culture they come from or the religion they believe in."

The world is made up of different cultures, Danielle said - races, religious groups and people of different physical appearances.

"When you show deference, you are remembering to be aware of those around you and respecting their differences," she said.

The event included a skit about the "Noble Gentleman," with Tavon Anderson as the lead performer. Teacher/coach Linda Walker and four students - vocalist Terra Garvin, Syndonia Foster, Somers Smith and Draven Hinson - performed "Dyin' Cowboy."

At the heart of deference is learning to understand and respect the fact that not everybody feels the same way about things, Danielle said. Personal differences are the result of people coming from different cultures and background and having different personalities.

"Differences should be celebrated," said Jason. "It sure would be boring if we all looked the same, talked the same, liked the same food, wore the same clothes and did the exact same things."

Senior writer Rob Novit, a journalist for the past 41 years, joined the Aiken Standard staff in 2001. He covers education news and general assignments.