A Month of Reflection, Recognition, and Empowerment
By Christy Brundage P’24, P’26, African American Parent Council Chair
In early February, the Albuquerque Academy Black Student Union and their families attended the 39th Annual University of New Mexico Black History Month Kickoff Brunch, featuring keynote speaker Aja Brooks, the executive assistant United States attorney for the District of New Mexico. The brunch provided students, faculty, and parents a unique opportunity to connect with influential African American community leaders and Black Student Union members from Albuquerque and Rio Rancho public schools. The inspiring atmosphere set the tone for a month dedicated to honoring the rich tapestry of African American history, culture, and contributions.
On campus, the African American Parent Council curated an enlightening exhibit in Simms Library with this year’s national Black History Month theme, African Americans and the Arts. The exhibit showcased the profound impact of African American artists across various realms, including visual and performing arts, literature, hair artistry, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, and culinary arts. Through these diverse expressions, artists have played a pivotal role in preserving history, fostering community, and empowering generations. To deepen the appreciation of the Black community’s culture and diversity at Albuquerque Academy, the exhibit also featured a collection of national flags representing the heritage of the Academy’s families.
The State Office of African American Affairs invited Emma Brundage ’24 and Maya Chandler ’24 to take center stage in a KOAT Channel 7 interview at the African American Performing Arts Center, providing insight into “what Black History Month means” to local students. Their voices joined those of high school students from across Albuquerque, collectively echoing the significance of Black History Month.
Adding to the list of noteworthy experiences, members of the Black Student Union traveled to the state capitol for African American Day at the Roundhouse. In a special presentation held in the rotunda, attendees paid tribute to New Mexico’s first African American state legislator, Dr. Lenton Malry. Two Academy students played an integral role in the program – Mekhi Bradford ’28 showcased his poetic talents by reciting a poem, and Emma presented on her Girl Scout Gold Award topic, the CROWN Act, which prohibits discrimination, discipline, or disparate treatment of New Mexico students based on their hairstyle or cultural or religious headdress. Guided by State Representative Pamelya Herndon P’00, P’04, P’10, the students gained valuable exposure to the legislative process and learned about opportunities for civic engagement.
As we commemorate Black History Month at Albuquerque Academy, these moments of reflection, recognition, and empowerment serve as a testament to our commitment to fostering a community that values and celebrates diversity in all its forms. We honor the past, embrace the present, and envision a future of inclusivity and understanding.
