Syriana Etheart: Attending Morehouse RHA Stroll Showcase (2-3 points)

On November 21st, I attended the Morehouse RHA Stroll Competition/Showcase. Each freshman dorm at Morehouse has its very own stroll team. Each team chose its own theme/storyline for its showcase to win over the crowd. I know Freshman stroll teams are a unique part of campus culture at Spelman and Morehouse, so I wanted to be sure that I got to experience it. Additionally, I wanted to support my best friend who is on Brazeal’s team. 

The showcase was amazing. It was so high-energy, and each performance was captivating. It was very clear that immense time, thought, and effort had been put into my every performance. Each dorm hall had costumes, incorporated acting, and striking choreography. I thought each team allowed their creativity to really shape their stroll showcase. My personal favorites included Brazeal's rendition of Black Panther and Hubert’s storyline using the show “Phineas and Ferb”. I also loved how engaged the audience was throughout the showcase. It was so much fun to see everyone bring posters and hype up every team. I believe it’s so special to be a part of a community that truly shows up to support each other and appreciates the creativity and dedication it takes to create a show. 

After the show, I took the time to think a little deeper about the stroll performance. I found it so interesting how a stroll competition like this one is really only seen at HBCUs (at least to my knowledge). I think this overall relates to our roots in African traditions, as tribes and various ethnic groups had their own defining dances, ones you could say almost resemble a stroll. I love how the traditions at Spelman and Morehouse, in one way or another, ground us in community and highlight Black and African culture. I’m truly appreciative to be a part of such an uplifting community. 

Overall, I had an amazing time at this showcase. It was so incredibly fun and a great addition to my experience as a first-year student. I definitely can’t wait for the next showcase!