UPDATE: The Victoria Black History Festival has officially returned after a five-year hiatus, celebrating 100 years of Black American history on October 14, 2023. This year marks the centennial of historian Carter G. Woodson‘s establishment of “Negro History Week” in 1926, evolving into a national recognition of Black achievements.
The festival’s revival, spearheaded by the Black History Steering Committee, brought together families, local businesses, and artists to honor the cultural identity of the Black community in Victoria. “We did our best to make it happen,” said Gordon Williams, a committee member and the festival’s parade chairman. He emphasized the importance of imparting history to younger generations, stating, “We are all Americans, and we are all part of this story.”
The festivities kicked off with a vibrant community parade, featuring local marching bands, dance clubs, and floats from historic churches. The procession wound through city streets, attracting hundreds of residents before culminating at the Victoria Community Center Annex. “It’s important to have these events to show what previous generations have done to make this country what it is today,” remarked Doc Brown, President of the 9th and 10th Horse Cavalry National Association Houston Chapter.
The association honors the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers, who played a crucial role in American history. Brown noted, “If the Buffalo Soldiers had not been around, this country’s progress would have been held back about another 50 years.” This perspective reinforces the festival’s theme: Black history is integral to American history.
The Black History Steering Committee’s goal is to enrich and educate the Victoria community during Black History Month, creating awareness about the contributions of Black residents—from laborers who built regional railroads to the Buffalo Soldiers who fought for freedom. The festival serves as a reminder that the story of Victoria cannot be told without the contributions of its Black residents.
As the festival continues, officials encourage the community to participate in events aimed at celebrating Black heritage and recognizing the struggles and triumphs of past generations. “It’s important that young Black people know that those who came before them did a lot to make this culture and this country what it is today,” Brown added.
The return of the Victoria Black History Festival is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action for communities to remember, honor, and continue the legacy of Black Americans. As the festivities unfold, residents are urged to engage in this crucial dialogue about identity, history, and culture.
Stay tuned for more updates as the festival progresses and more events are scheduled throughout the month. This is a critical moment for community engagement and education, reinforcing the importance of understanding the shared history that shapes our nation today.
