Victoria Black History Festival Resumes After 5-Year Hiatus

UPDATE: The Victoria Black History Festival has returned after a five-year hiatus, celebrating a century of Black American history. This momentous event, held on Saturday, October 14, honors the legacy of historian Carter G. Woodson, who established “Negro History Week” in 1926, evolving it into a national month-long recognition of Black achievements.

Local families and innovators gathered in Victoria, Texas, to reflect on a century of progress and cultural identity from the era of segregation to the digital age. “We did our best to make it happen,” said Gordon Williams, the newest member of the Black History Steering Committee. As the chairman of the Black History Parade, Williams emphasized the importance of sharing this history with younger generations, stating, “We are all Americans, and we are all part of this story.”

The Black History Steering Committee, a non-profit organization, aims to enrich the community through activities and events during Black History Month. The festival served as a platform to unite families, local businesses, artists, and organizations, showcasing the richness of Black heritage and its impact on the community.

The festivities kicked off with a vibrant community parade, which included local marching bands, dance clubs, and floats from historic churches. The procession wound through the streets of Victoria, drawing crowds as it made its way to 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,” stated Doc Brown, President of the 9th and 10th Horse Cavalry National Association Houston Chapter.

The Houston Chapter honors the Buffalo Soldiers, the original cavalry regiments for Black soldiers during the Civil War. Since 1991, they have worked to raise public awareness of these soldiers’ contributions to American history. Brown remarked, “The Buffalo Soldiers of the 1860s and 1870s fought and built communities for those settling in the West. It’s crucial to keep Black history alive, and for young Black people to know their rich heritage.”

The festival emphasized that Black history is integral to American history. The event highlighted how the contributions of Black communities are essential to the story of Victoria and the nation. From the laborers who built railroads to the Buffalo Soldiers who defended freedoms, the festival underscored that the narrative of Victoria cannot be told without recognizing its Black residents.

With the festival’s successful return, the Black History Steering Committee aims to make this an annual celebration, fostering understanding and appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of the community. The festival serves as a reminder that history is not only about the past but shapes the present and future.

As the community reflects on this significant milestone, all eyes are on how the Victoria Black History Festival will evolve in the years to come. Stay tuned for more updates on this important cultural event.