We have the right to get in good trouble! - Spelman College Glee Club +6 Participate in Performing Arts

 

As I begin my third year as a member of the Spelman College Glee Club, I reflect on the wonderful experiences I've had. Music is such a powerful form of art and expression. The Spelman College Glee Club was the reason I started to consider Spelman College as my only undergraduate option. I knew that creating art with an all-Black woman choir would be a new and life-changing experience. As a member of the Glee Club, I've grown as an artist, leader, and woman. 

Over the summer, I assisted with planning an excellent collaboration between the Glee Club and Syracuse University. In June, 40 current students, 10 alumnae, and a small jazz band flew into Syracuse, New York, for the Syracuse Jazz Festival. We performed many of our beloved pieces, but my favorite is a piece called 'Good Trouble,' written by our director, Dr. Kevin Phillip Johnson. In light of recent events happening in the world, it is essential that we remember that we, the people, have power. "That we're endowed by our creator with certain unalienable rights. These rights are life, and liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. If our government fails to do these things, it is the right of the people to get in good trouble." These words serve as a powerful reminder that even in troubling times, we are not powerless. Alongside this piece, we performed "The Revolution Will Not Be Televised" by Gil Scott-Heron, and a beautiful poem by our own member, Elissa Jefferson, class of 2028.

As we continue into our 101st year, I plan to continue to use my voice to spread love, raise awareness, and create art with my Spelman sisters. 

By Jordyn O'Neal