Hannah Hunter (Class of 2029) - Blues for an Alabama Sky (Cultural Expansion, Performance - 2 points)

 

                    

Exhaustion of the Negro Dream 

Last week, I attended “Blues for an Alabama Sky,” a play set in Harlem, New York, my hometown. The performers were very talented, and their emotions and acting truly brought the story to life. I originally went because I wanted to see if theater was something I could see myself doing here, and the experience definitely encouraged me to do so. 

The scene that resonated with me the most was when Angel returned from her “cancelled audition”. She talked about being used for her body and expressed the exhaustion of constantly fighting to be seen. When she said she was tired of having “Negro dreams,” it spoke to me deeply. That line carried so much weight because it showed the pain of striving, working hard, and still never being enough. It reminded me of the persistence it takes to keep going, even though the world seems determined to overlook Black women. 

This is connected to Engagement Through Persistence for me. I realized that genuine engagement doesn’t just mean showing up, but it means continuing to pursue your goals despite setbacks and self-doubt. Angel’s struggle reflected a reality many Black women face, and it made me think about how persistence is not just a habit, but a form of resistance. This performance reminded me that even when the world is working against you and trying to define who you are, continuing to show up in its own way is a form of strength. 

• Hannah Hunter (Class of 2029)