Twin Exhibits Celebrate
Black History Month
The Huntington High School and J. Taylor Finley Middle School main lobbies have featured colorful and informative displays for much of the past month with dozens of artifacts that have helped recognize the culture and contributions of outstanding people of color in the United States.
The eye-catching displays were created by the Rev. Bernadette Watkins of Huntington Outreach Ministries to help celebrate Black History Month and educate young people and visitors to the two buildings about some of the leading personalities in America's history.
The items on display came almost exclusively from Rev. Watkins' personal collection and were specifically selected for display at the schools. The longtime local resident said that Black History Month is an important teaching tool. "I hope the students to look at the artifacts and learn from them," Rev. Watkins said. "I want them to know about their heritage and to be inquisitive about it."
The two exhibits featured historic stamps, photos, books, arts and crafts, posters, jewelry, figurines, carvings, compact discs, masks, dolls and statues. Profiles and photos of great Americans of color were also displayed as were stories about local slaves and other interesting facts and vignettes. One of the items is about 110 years old.
"We are very grateful to Rev. Watkins for providing us with an original display for the last several years," Huntington High School Principal Carmela Leonardi said. "Our school values the opportunity to share information and valued artifacts that represent the history and achievements of African-Americans."
In the future, Rev. Watkins hopes to set-up a display in a third school. "I have acquired a lot of items over the years that are perfect for these displays," she said. "I look for things wherever I go. I found many of them in antique shops."
"Students love to see real artifacts that relate to significant events and people," Finley Principal John Amato said. "The Black History Month display has become an annual occurrence here at Finley. Every period students and staff gather to look at the commemorative items from various people in our nation's history and culture who happen to be African-Americans, not the least of which is our President, Barack Obama. Our thanks go to Rev. Watkins and her family for providing the time and the items for the display."