Bay Path University’s Annual Black History Month Showcase

Black History Month celebrates achievements of the black community throughout the years. Forensic psychology major, Alissa Vazquez ’19, has a strong passion for her heritage, and has many roles on campus. She is a member of the Bay Path Chorale, and serves as a member of the executive board for the Page and Chorale singers. In addition, Vazquez is co-host of the 7th Annual Black History Month Showcase with fellow student Chelsea Greene. They are thrilled to be putting together the annual showcase which will feature spoken word, dance, and vocal performances from the Bay Path community celebrating Black Excellence. Vazquez talks more about how the showcase has evolved, and what makes it so unique to Bay Path in this Q & A segment: 

What is the Black History Showcase all about?

The Black History Month Showcase is a student-led event that is meant to broadcast talent while celebrating excellence within the black community. Artists from past showcases and new talent perform. The performances are all unique--we have dancers, spoken word, and vocal artists, all ranging in skin color, age, and gender.

What drew you to become involved?

I have always been a natural leader. No matter the challenge, I try to be an ally. I know there are so many voices that are not being heard and I cannot stand that. I feel that this showcase has the potential to be the platform to help bridge the gap for those who need an outlet by creating a safe space and community that embraces culture and diversity.

Why is this event important to you personally?

This event is important for me because I am able to bring a community together. Although the event is called the Black History Month Showcase, an individual doesn’t have to be black to support or perform. Talent has no race or gender. This is one way that everyone can come together and, to me, that is what community is about.

What are your favorite parts of the event?

I would have to say my favorite part is seeing these individuals do something that makes them happy, and being able to give them the platform they deserve to embrace the beautiful gift they were given.

What do you hope audience members will take away from this showcase?

I hope that that audience sees that talent has no race, and that through this showcase we are able to connect with one another with our love for the arts. I want the performers to feel comfortable in their skin and I hope the audience connects with the talent of my performers, and not the color of their skin.

Is there anything else you’d like to add about yourself and this experience?

I chose Black Excellence as the theme for the 7th Annual Black History Month Showcase because the event is about respect, empowerment, pride, history and our future as a whole. Being a member of the black community, I have faced many disparities within the school systems, workplace, and within social groups. I wanted to create a platform where people who look like me can be celebrated. Not all of my performers are people of color, but that is the beauty behind it all. This event is about creating a space of community and togetherness. A moment where we listen with our hearts.

Join the Bay Path community in embracing Black Excellence at the Black History Month Showcase on Saturday, February 24th at 7 pm in Mills Theatre, located in Carr Hall on the Longmeadow campus.