Raleigh Celebrates Black History with North Central CAC's 35th Annual Program

This event marked the city's 35th annual Black History Month Program, organized by the North Central CAC, uniting the communities under the banner "Two Communities, Together as One."

"Today, we personally salute the legacy of the trailblazers of Idlewild and College Park," Marchell Adams-David, Raleigh city manager, said.

State, city, and congressional leaders joined dozens of residents to honor and remember the history of these communities.

The program touched on both success stories and challenges faced, from the oppressive Jim Crow era through integration to the present day.

"The time is now for our students, our institution," Marcus Burgess said.

Speakers included St. Augustine's University's Interim President Marcus Burgess, who alluded to his university's recent challenges and pointed out a neighborhood landmark, the former St. Agnes hospital, that serves as a warning.

"The reality right now is if we don't do something quick, fast and in a hurry, that's a reminder of where we could be," Burgess said.

However, the day wasn't solely focused on hardships. Joyous moments included honoring longtime residents and recognizing the resilience that defines these people and their communities.

"Through it all, we made it through," Octavia Rainey, community organizer, said.