Black History month started off with a bang on Thursday, Feb. 10 when the Southeastern chapter of the NAACP and MISA hosted a kickoff party. From the very beginning, the event was full of performances and there was never a dull moment.

“The variety of talents displayed was inspirational,” said senior Ranessa Potier.

The Southeastern Gospel Choir started the night off with a song, followed by a performance by the dance team Praise in Motion. Spoken word artist Jacy Carpenter then did a reading of her original poem entitled “Embracing Our Black Stereotypes.”

The main event was an inspirational speech given by NBA great, Bob “Butterbean” Love. The former basketball player now travels around the country giving motivational speeches to students.

According to a Jan. 27 press release, Love was born in Bastrop, Louisiana where he grew up as one of 14 children. Love also suffered from severe stuttering which would leave him unable to speak properly or even sometimes not at all. Love would overcome this and become the second Chicago Bulls player to have their jersey retired.

Above all, Love emphasized the importance and influence of education. This message was especially directed to the student athletes in the audience.

“Education first, sports second, young people,” said Love.  “That’s the game.”

He also stressed the importance of perseverance.

“You travel a long, winding road of life.” said Love. “On that road, you’re going to get knocked down. You must get back up. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve and succeed.”

After Love’s inspiring speech, the Southeastern Lady Cubs performed an African dance for the audience.  The final performance of the night was show of singing and dancing puppets put on by the Star Hills Anointed Hands of Testimony Puppet Ministry, a group from Baton Rouge.

“The puppets were my favorite,” said freshman Rachel Davis. “They were quite entertaining,”

The turn out of people to the event was much more than anticipated. About 70 attendees were expected, but over 100 people showed up. Despite a few small technical difficulties with the sound system, all those present enjoyed the performances and the overall experience of the event.

“All the programs, all the line-up did wonderful,” said Marjorie Parker, the president of NAACP chapter at Southeastern. “The whole strength of [Black History Month] is diversity.”