Administrators, teachers, students, guest speakers and Passaic’s mayor showed their support during the assembly. Photo by www.picturemangreg.com

By Aleyshka Barbosa

On Thursday, February 23, The Passaic Board of Education and the PHS African-American Club presented an outstanding presentation in celebration of Black History Month.

Reverend Pamela D. Sallie and Michael Spence spoke about their personal experiences and how they have overcome the labels they were given. Period eight and nine classes were given the opportunity to hear the wise word of those who have experienced more and have used their experiences to teach others how to not make the same mistakes.

Ms. Bolton, Reverend Sallie and Ms. Hiller-Cousins. Photo by Ms. Sciametta.

The assembly started with opening remarks by Mr. Velez, following by welcoming and acknowledgment of special guests by Kashim Cooks, the president of the PHS African-American Club. Quickly after, everyone stood for the Pledge of Allegiance and presentation of colors by the PHS NJROTC and the Negro National Anthem. Among the attendees of the presentation was Passaic Mayor Hector C. Lora.

Mr. Marvin Walker officially began the assembly with the libation ceremony, in which a plant is watered; if the spirit of the people are good then the plant will grow, but if the people are not righteous then the plant will die.

Rockaya N’Doye, a member of the PHS African American Club introduced the first guest speaker, Reverend Pamela D. Sallie. Her insightful description of the struggles she faced and her how she overcame them, was made very clear with the confidence and the positive vibes that surrounded her in the auditorium.

Reverend Sallie addresses PHS faculty, staff and students. Photo by Ms. Sciametta.

Rev. Sallie made sure to leave her message behind when she confidently stated, “you heard my story and now you see the glory.”

Students Ciara Flores and Brandon Santiago performed an African dance before the introduction of the second guest speaker. Bintu N’Doye, another member of the African American club introduced the guest speaker, Michael Spence. His words left the audience in silence and whirls of emotions surrounded the assembly.

Spence’s message was clear; “If you don’t change yourself, then you can’t change the world.”

The ROTC Students escorted the Passaic Mayor, Hector C. Lora as he exited the black history month assembly. Photo by www.picturemangreg.com.