One way that Manhattan Middle School celebrates Black History Month every February is by sharing the story of a notable Black individual each day during morning announcements. This year, many students contributed their own written spotlights on figures that they have found to be personally inspiring.

Thank you to Ava H. ’26 for the research she conducted and shared with her classmates on Cicely Tyson below.  

Award-winning actress Cicely Tyson was a cultural icon who broke through racial barriers and defied the odds to become one of the most respected, celebrated artists of all time. Born December 19, 1924 in Harlem, NY, Tyson made her screen debut at age 31. Tyson refused to take roles solely for the paycheck. Instead, she focused her efforts on selecting roles that portrayed the Black community in a positive light. In a 1983 interview, Tyson said, “Unless a piece really said something, I had no interest in it. I have got to know that I have served some purpose here.” Tyson was also a strong leader who believed in helping her community. She co-founded the Dance Theater of Harlem after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. In recognition of her work, a school board in East Orange, NJ created a performing arts school in her name. Tyson attended school meetings and events, participated in school activities, and taught a master class. Sadly, Tyson died on January 28, 2021, leaving behind a rich legacy that will live on forever.