Blackout Week: A Celebration of Black History and Culture

Through engaging events, the BSU highlighted the rich cultural contributions of Black communities in Miami and beyond, inviting students to reflect on history, heritage, and unity.

The week kicked off on Monday with a Caribbean Tropics dress-down day, honoring the Afro-Caribbean history of Allapattah and Little Haiti. Students embraced the vibrant culture by wearing colorful attire that reflected the spirit of these historic neighborhoods.

On Tuesday, the Upper School assembly welcomed Beyond Vizcaya, who shared the powerful story of Eustace Edgecombe. His journey illuminated the deep connections between Vizcaya and the people who helped build the iconic estate, offering students a meaningful perspective on Miami’s past.

The excitement continued on Wednesday with the 305 Black History Tour, an interactive experience where students traveled through stations representing historic Black neighborhoods in Miami. Through uncovering clues and solving a crossword puzzle, students discovered the lasting impact of these communities, making history an engaging and hands-on experience.

Friday brought the much-anticipated BSU Cookout, an annual tradition filled with games, music, and food. The festivities continued with a surprise jazz-inspired concert featuring Arnitris Williams and her band, The Collective, who electrified the Upper School assembly with a soulful performance. The concert paid tribute to Overtown, highlighting the neighborhood’s rich musical legacy.

Through engaging discussions, cultural experiences, and community gatherings, Blackout Week successfully honored the past while celebrating the present, inspiring students to continue learning and appreciating the profound contributions of Miami's Black history and culture.