By Alena Scarver
Youth from the Youth Pride Center and Little Black Pearl collaborated to celebrate Black History Month by honoring individuals who have worked closely with HIV/AIDS prevention at the Little Black Pearl Art and Design Center, 1060 E. 47th, on Feb. 26.
The evening began with a performance of a young woman singing We Shall Overcome. During the middle of the song, she recited a poem to the audience.
The audience enjoyed live band performances, dancing and a fashion show while dining on various entrees.
People from various organizations—including ADODI, Windy City Black Pride and the Chicago State University HIV/AIDS Research and Policy Institute—were honored at the ceremony.
One of the honorees, Rev. Deborah Lake of Sankofa Way ( a non-profit, faith-based organization committed to providing interfaith spiritual care ) stood in front of the audience and said, 'I am honored to be here tonight. You are our hopes and our dreams. I will be here for Youth Pride Center and Little Black Pearl.' Among the others honored were activist Keith Green, Chicago Department of Public Health's Lora Branch and entrepreneur duo Pat and Vera.
Honorees stressed to attendees that they should find what they were put on the Earth to do and fulfill their dreams and pursuits.
Frank Walker, director of Youth Pride Center, said as he was honored by the youth that 'I see kids die every day on the news. These kids have spent ... hours honoring Black people.'