On February 18, 2025, Tyler Legacy High School proudly hosted Roots of Rhythm: A Celebration of Culture, Community, and Cuisine!—an inspiring Black History Month program that honored the rich legacy of Black culture through music, spoken word, dance, and historical reflection.
The evening began with a warm welcome from emcee Dianne Williamson connecting Tyler Legacy’s theme to the 2025 National theme: African Americans and Labor, setting the tone for a powerful celebration of heritage and unity. Kevin Wynn delivered a stirring rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing, reminding the audience of the resilience and strength embedded in Black history.
A particularly moving moment was the dedication of the program to Rasheedah Muhammad, an educator whose unwavering dedication to her students left a lasting impact on the Tyler Legacy community.
The program continued with performances, including a soulful solo from Jalyssa Johnson. The Starville CME Praise & Dance Team brought energy and grace to the stage, while the Divine Nine Roll Call, led by Steven Young and Dianne Williamson, paid tribute to the historic legacy of Black Greek-letter organizations.
Spoken word artist Tyren Duncan delivered a thought-provoking performance, blending artistry and activism to highlight themes of history, identity, and perseverance. The evening culminated with an inspiring keynote address from Judge Derrick Choice, who spoke on the importance of culture, unity, and the power of resilience in shaping the future.
Following the program, attendees gathered outside the theater for a cultural exhibition featuring the Tyler Legacy Culinary Club, local business owner Lori Bailey, and Yesterday’s Tomorrow Artifacts Collection, curated by Marlandos Fields. This interactive experience allowed guests to engage with Black history through food, art, and historical artifacts, deepening their connection to the evening’s themes.
Roots of Rhythm was more than just a program—it was a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring history, embracing community, and celebrating the cultural contributions that continue to shape our world.
