Downers Grove South Event to Celebrate African-American Culture

Students at Downers Grove South High School will hold an open house Thursday night to celebrate African-American culture and Black History Month.

"Cultural CommUNITY Connections: A Celebration of African American Culture" will be held at 6:30 p.m. at South High, 1436 Norfolk Ave. Cake and coffee will be served; admission is free and the community is welcome to attend.

Serving as the keynote speaker for the event is Scottie Williams Jr., a 2009 South High graduate and current running back at Elmhurst College. In November, Williams was named the winner of the 2012 Gagliardi Trophy for his outstanding football season. The award is often referred to as the “Heisman Trophy” of Division 3 teams.

Williams was the first player from Illinois to receive the award.

READ: Downers Grove South Alum Scottie Williams Named Gagliardi Trophy Finalist

“Scottie is the ultimate role model for our students of what a South High alum should be,” said Sheldon Davis, a dean at South High and sponsor of the African-American Male Leadership Group, which organized the event. “What’s most impressive about him is that although he’s an outstanding athlete, he’s always prioritized being a student first.”

Davis said he believes that Williams’ personal stories of perseverance and hard work will serve as an inspiration to current students.

The event will also celebrate Black History Month with performances by the Stepper dancers; members will also present an overview about the origins of this unique type of dance. In addition, three prominent African-American artists from Chicago will be in attendance: Adrienne Powers, Darno Demby and Paul Branton. Art will be created by the artists live during the event.

Other cultures will be represented as well—such as the school group Caribbean Soul, which will showcase Hispanic culture.

“We’re hoping to celebrate African American culture, but also unite all different cultures,” Davis said. ”We want to highlight all that our cultures have in common—and show that we have many more similarities than differences.”

For questions about the event, contact Sheldon Davis at 630-795-8533.

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