Celebrating Black History: Xi Zeta Omega showcases DC area student talent | Community Spirit

Washington, DC-- February 19, 2012. It was a cold Sunday morning with snow on the horizon on the Howard University campus but inside there was a glow of positive youthful energy and talent thanks to the Xi Zeta Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. 2012 Black History Youth Oratorical and Arts Contest.

The annual contest competition is designed to encourage DC area students to celebrate and embrace the contributions of African-Americans, past and present. Participants learned about the efforts of African-Americans and also had an opportunity to display their oratory and artistic talents in the categories of visual arts, music, the written word, and public speaking.

Proud parents looked on as their students took the stage and recited everything from Maya Angelou to vocal and instrumental performances to even unique displays of artwork with figures like Thurgood Marshall and President Barack Obama.  Check out the article video clip to hear more from contestants.

The contest was open to students in grades 6 through 9 who are enrolled in District of Columbia public and charter schools and Prince George’s County (Maryland) public schools. The top three entries in each category were awarded a monetary prize of up to $150. All participants received a certificate of participation.  To find out more about Xi Zeta Omega in the community vist them at:  http://www.akazo.org .