UPDATE: The highly anticipated Victoria Black History Festival has officially returned after a five-year hiatus, celebrating a century of Black American history this past Saturday, July 15, 2023. This year’s festival marks the 100th anniversary of historian Carter G. Woodson establishing “Negro History Week,” a milestone that has evolved into a month-long national recognition of Black achievements.
The Black History Steering Committee organized the festival to honor local families and innovators who have navigated a century of change—from segregation to the digital age—while preserving their rich cultural identity in the Crossroads region. “We did our best to make it happen,” stated Gordon Williams, a committee member and chairman of the Black History Parade. “I’ve been here since 2011, and I wanted to help impart on the younger generations that we are all Americans, and we are all part of this story.”
The festivities commenced with a vibrant community parade that showcased a timeline of history, featuring local marching bands, dance clubs, and floats from historic churches and organizations. The parade drew crowds to the sidewalks, culminating at the Victoria Community Center Annex.
“It’s important to have these events to show what previous generations have done to make this country what it is today,” said Doc Brown, President of the 9th and 10th Horse Cavalry National Association Houston Chapter. He emphasized the significant role of the Buffalo Soldiers in shaping American history, stating, “If the Buffalo Soldiers had not been around, this country’s progress would have been held back about another 50 years.”
The National Association of the 9th and 10th Horse Cavalry Regiments aims to honor the legacy of these African American cavalrymen from the Civil War era. Since 1991, the Houston Chapter has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the Buffalo Soldiers’ contributions, highlighting that their fight for freedom and establishment of settlements were vital to westward expansion.
Central to this weekend’s celebration was the message that Black history is American history. The festival effectively illustrated that the contributions of Black communities are not isolated but integral to the broader narrative of Victoria and the nation. From the laborers who constructed the regional railroads to the Buffalo Soldiers securing freedom, the event reminded attendees that the story of Victoria cannot be complete without acknowledging its Black residents.
As the festival seeks to become an annual event, community leaders are optimistic about its future impact. The Black History Steering Committee aims to plan and promote activities that enrich and educate the Victoria community throughout Black History Month and beyond.
With the successful return of the festival, residents are encouraged to reflect on the past while looking forward to the ongoing journey of Black history and its vital role in American identity.
What’s Next: Community members are urged to share their experiences and insights from the festival on social media, ensuring that the stories of Black heritage resonate beyond this weekend. The committee is already planning future events aimed at fostering unity, education, and celebration of Black culture in Victoria.
