February is Black History Month, where people come together to celebrate achievements by African Americans and recognize their central role in U.S. history. We would be amiss if we didn’t acknowledge the Harlem Renaissance Era and its role in Black culture. The Harlem Renaissance reignited and celebrated African American music, dance, art, fashion, literature, theater and politics centered in Harlem, Manhattan, New York City, spanning the 1920s and 1930s.

For the third year in a row, the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ®, Omicron Chi Omega Chapter will celebrate the Harlem Renaissance and the Black Art Movement.

This year’s theme, A Virtual Salute to the Harlem Renaissance and the Black Arts Movement ‘A Change is Coming’, will feature two professional speakers with extensive knowledge of the Harlem Renaissance era and talented youth musicians, singers, dancers, poets, and visual artists. The event acknowledges the inspiration and cultural impact of the Harlem Renaissance and the Black Arts Movement eras on American culture.

It elates the returning youths to be a part of this celebration program: “It’s exciting to be a part of the program again to learn more about Black artists and meet new artists in the area. As an artist, I get to meet new Black artists who want to express themselves like people did during the Harlem Renaissance and Black Arts movement. I learn something new and meet new people every year”, remarked Ayanna Rowe.

Another returning artist, Kenadi Moorman, had this to say: “Last year it was a fun experience to perform in the Harlem Renaissance event with the AKAs, and this time I wanted to sing something more impactful that would leave a positive message with others. Also, I’m hoping other young artists would see this, want to get involved and showcase their talents.”

We hope you will join this celebration of culture and art by tuning-in to AKA’s virtual YouTube event this Saturday, February 27, 2021, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM.

For more information, please contact Brenda Johnson at arts@ocoaka.com.

The Omicron Chi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® is a local service organization that was chartered in 1985. The chapter has been serving the Greater Prince William County community for 35 years and has received many community awards and recognition by the State of Virginia for its engagement in numerous service programs. For more information on Omicron Chi Omega, visit omicronchiomega-aka.com