Students to explore the legacy of the Harlem Renaissance.
Berkeley, CA – March 24, 2025 – Berkeley Unified School District (BUSD) announces the 7th Annual Black History Oratorical Fest (BHOF), a community event celebrating the contributions of Black/African Americans through artistic expression. This year’s theme, “A Reclamation of Narrative: The Cultural Revolution of the Harlem Renaissance,” will explore the historical context, visionaries, and artistic messages of this pivotal era.
We are also excited to announce that the incredible Jazz Monique Hudson will be the Master of Ceremonies for the evening.
Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the event.
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
- Time: 5:30 PM
- Location: 2020 Bonar Street, Berkeley, CA 94702
- Theme: A Reclamation of Narrative: The Cultural Revolution of the Harlem Renaissance
- Competitors: BUSD students in grades 3 – 12
The BHOF is a tournament-style competition featuring Berkeley students in grades 3-12 who will perform published and original speeches, spoken word pieces, and poems that highlight the annual theme. The event is the culmination of months of preparation and learning as students explore the historical context and cultural impact of the Harlem Renaissance.
This year’s theme will delve into:
- The Spark Behind the Harlem Renaissance
- The Visionaries Who Defined the Era
- The Meaning Behind the Art
- The Power of Community
BUSD’s BHOF is more than just a competition. It is a collaborative effort that brings together students, families, educators, and community members to celebrate Black history and culture. The event provides a platform for students to share their voices and perspectives while honoring the legacy of the Harlem Renaissance.
We encourage all media members to attend and share this important event with the community. Your presence will help amplify the voices of our students and celebrate the rich history and culture of Black/African Americans.
About Berkeley Unified School District (BUSD)
The Mission of the Berkeley Unified School District is to enable and inspire our diverse student body to achieve academic excellence and make positive contributions to our world. Berkeley Unified School District is committed to providing a high-quality education for all students. The district serves a diverse student population and is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive learning environment.
About Jazz Monique Hudson
Jazz Monique Hudson is a passionate educator, speaker, and social justice advocate with over 15 years of experience in youth development, racial equity, and the arts. Jazz is an award-winning artist and dynamic facilitator committed to creating inclusive spaces that foster healing, empowerment, and transformative learning—particularly for Black and Brown communities. She holds a degree in Africana Studies and Race, Ethnicity, and Health. She is currently enrolled in the Formal Pre-Health Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Program in San Francisco, California, furthering her studies with a focus on health equity and holistic wellness. She has performed and spoken at hundreds of venues, including college campuses, conferences, and cultural events, sharing stages with renowned figures such as Angela Davis, Dr. Joy DeGruy, Saul Williams, and Mos Def.
Contact:
Kamar O’Guinn, Manager: African American Success Project
kamaroguinn@berkeley.net, (510) 644-7785
Trish McDermott, BUSD Senior Communications Officer
trishmcdermott@berkeley.net, 510-631-1463
