ST. PETERSBURG – The St. Petersburg Metropolitan Section of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. acknowledged Black History Month by showcasing the talent of the young ladies in its Black Pearls Youth program. This year’s theme, Visionary of Black Bold and Beautiful Butterflies: Women of Color, recognized and paid tribute to the many women of color both on the local and national levels.
With Chairperson Cynthia Jenkins and Co-Chair Valerie Williams at the helm, much effort, dedication and diligence was put into the production of the virtual presentation, which could also double for a Women’s History Month program
The Joy Reedy Talk Show was a hit, with Allene Gammage-Ahmed as host. Outstanding performances were given by the Black Pearls portraying powerful women of color in politics and power.
Cast members included:
- Xela Wade portrayed Vice President Kamala Harris, first woman and woman of color to hold the office
- Kira Butler as Michelle Obama, the first African-American First Lady
- Quinci Butler portrayed California Congresswoman Maxine Waters, the first woman and first African-American Chair of the House Financial Services Committee
- Joselyn MCallister as Stacey Abrams, former member of the Georgia House of Representatives.
This celebration of strong, Black women allowed the Black Pearls to star in their own production, which was both educational and inspiring. The thought behind the program was to encourage the youth to dream big, follow their passions, and show them that the world is full of opportunities.
“There are so many dynamic women of color in our midst, and we applaud each and every one of them for all they do to effect change in our community on all levels of the spectrum, as well as continuously helping to move our community forward,” said Jenkins.
Many people tuned in via social media to watch the young ladies acting debuts, such as Carolyn Harvey Wilson, who said, “This was a stellar production.” And Rose Mack, who declared, “The Black Pearls’ history presentation of the black butterflies was fantastic, I honor each of you who gave a lot to make the production an outstanding event!”
Thelma Bruce, NCNW program chair, shared, “Super congratulations on the phenomenally successful Black history presentation! The vision of co-directors, Cynthia and Val, was superb. Allene did an excellent job as Joy Reedy, and the Black Pearls were fantastic!”
Special remarks were given by Ethel Peeples-Robinson, president of the St. Petersburg Metropolitan Section, Tee Solomon, president of the NCNW Florida Coalition, and Jenkins.
“Thank you for tuning into the 2021 Black History Month virtual program highlighting our Black Pearls. A heartfelt thanks to all of you who continue to support our NCNW section. Special thanks to playwright James EL Patterson,” said Jenkins.
For more information about the St. Petersburg Metropolitan Section of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., the Black Pearls Youth Group, and how to become a member, ncnwstpete.org. Be sure to watch the entire Black Bold and Beautiful Butterflies: Women of Color presentation at youtube.com/watch?v=_VdkwDlqEQ8.
