News Summary
After a five-year hiatus, Texas A&M University’s National Pan-Hellenic Council hosted the much-anticipated Black History Month Step Show, celebrating culture and history. The event showcased performances from seven of the Divine Nine fraternities and sororities, honoring their legacies through vibrant and spirited routines. With a strong turnout and a poignant tribute, the show highlighted the importance of community, self-expression, and culture for Black students at A&M.
Texas A&M’s NPHC Revives Black History Month Step Show After Five-Year Hiatus
Celebrating Culture and History at A&M
College Station, Texas – After five long years, the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) at Texas A&M University brought back the much-anticipated Black History Month Step Show, creating a buzz of excitement across campus. The event, which was held on February 28, 2025, celebrated both culture and history, filling the Rudder Forum with radiant energy and joy.
The NPHC is crucial for many Black students at A&M, as it serves to unify and uplift their communities through various cultural events. This year, seven out of the nine historically Black fraternities and sororities, affectionately known as **The Divine Nine**, took the stage, showcasing their unique traditions and spirited performances. The participating chapters included Alpha Phi Alpha, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Omega Psi Phi, Delta Sigma Theta, Phi Beta Sigma, and Sigma Gamma Rho.
A Celebration Months in the Making
Months of hard work, coordination, and preparation finally paid off with the return of this beloved tradition. NPHC president Daniel Ashley, who is majoring in civil engineering, emphasized the importance of this event in honoring the rich histories of their organizations as well as a collective history that binds their communities together.
Step dancing, better known as stepping, has its roots in West Africa, evolving through African American cultural practices and becoming a powerful form of expression. Historically, stepping was not just a performance art; it also symbolized resilience and unity, particularly during the dark periods of the transatlantic slave trade.
Performance Highlights
The stages lit up with various *high-energy* performances themed around a wealth of cultural references. Phi Beta Sigma wowed the audience with a routine inspired by the animated series “Regular Show,” capturing the playful essence and creativity of the characters. Meanwhile, the Xi Psi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha delivered a stunning performance drawing inspiration from the Broadway hit “Wicked,” showing off their artistic flair and melodious tones.
Creating a warm and familiar atmosphere, the Lambda Lambda Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho performed a lively routine centered around a family cookout, complete with vibrant music and relatable dances. But perhaps the most thrilling performance came from the Omicron Omega Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta as they combined dynamic gymnastic moves with elements from the gripping series “Squid Games,” which left the audience on the edge of their seats.
One of the event’s poignant moments was a *silent tribute* dedicated to Caleb Wilson, a fellow student whose life was tragically cut short due to a hazing incident. This meaningful acknowledgment resonated deeply with many in attendance, bringing a wave of unity and reflection to the atmosphere.
Overflowing Enthusiasm
There was no shortage of excitement as the audience turnout exceeded expectations, leading to many attendees having to stand due to overflow. The engaging night was hosted by graduate student James Baldwin, who provided a compact lesson on the history of Black History Month between the performances.
After the final dance steps faded, participants and attendees were invited to engage further with NPHC and learn about the various contributions these organizations make to the community. Events like the step show aim to provide avenues for identity, self-expression, comfort, and a sense of community for Black students on the Texas A&M campus.
A Tribute to Commitment and Creativity
The 2025 Black History Month Step Show proved to be not only a celebration of individual chapters’ histories but also a testament to the collective strength and creativity of Black student organizations at Texas A&M. The return of this tradition signifies renewed energy and commitment to honoring the unique cultural expressions that enrich campus life. As the laughter and applause echoed in the forum, it became clear that the legacy of stepping and the NPHC at Texas A&M will continue to thrive in the years to come.
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Additional Resources
- Austin American-Statesman
- Wikipedia: Step dance
- Covers
- Google Search: Texas A&M NPHC Step Show
- 12thMan
- Google Scholar: Black Fraternities and Sororities
- KBTX
- Encyclopedia Britannica: African American culture
- Victoria Advocate
- Google News: Texas A&M University
