Honoring Culture Through High School Activity Programs

High school sports are a representation of a school’s culture, pride and unity. High schools all across the country have unique rituals, expressions and traditions that make them what they are.

As consumers of high school sports, we have an amazing opportunity to express and learn about these different cultures and traditions as we support the student-athletes in our community. It is the uniqueness of these cultures and traditions that solidifies a school’s identity and presence – not just in their community, but around the state.

In the times we are experiencing in our schools today, where displays of culture are questioned, high school athletics and other activities allow for authentic experiences and expression that give us the opportunity to respect our differences.

“Oh Baby! It’s the Wood Baby!” That’s the chant that will fill the air of any competition when you are in the presence of the Millwood High School Falcons (Oklahoma City, Oklahoma). The cheer hails from the stands from a single leader and the chorus from the students and spectators that respond to the call sends the clear message that Millwood is present. There is no doubt that once this chant begins, the opponent is put on notice that they are about to be defeated. This traditional chant generally precedes a victory and opponents know that when it starts, the celebration of victory has begun.

This “call and response” chant is rooted in African American history. At Millwood, as a 96-percent African American school district, the practice of call and response is something that has been passed down from generation to generation, originating from Africa and utilized during the enslavement periods. The practice of call and response was generally utilized to teach history, religion and sometimes share information about how to escape. Because enslaved people were unable to learn to read, generally one person would say a phrase and the listeners would repeat it in order to learn. Continuing such a rich tradition of call and response in our school’s celebration is a way to honor our culture.

Stomp, clap, stomp, clap, stomp, clap . . . That is the pattern that anchors the cheers from the ACA National Game Day Cheer Champions at Millwood High School (MHS). Deeply rooted in the tradition of “Stepping,” a dance routine and expression founded by Black Sororities and Fraternities, the MHS Cheer Squad not only valiantly roots on its team but also displays pride and tradition while doing so.

Different from the traditional form of cheerleading, this ritual- based expression is a combination of powerful precise steps and claps and deep-throated, rhythmic vocals. It is nearly impossible to not be drawn into their enchantment once the game begins. Their unique style is the hallmark of the school’s pride and wherever they perform, they command attention from both the home and opposing teams. Expressing our culture and tradition through cheer allows for our students to join in to support their team and participate in cultural rituals.

Who’s ready for the 5th Quarter? Perhaps the most recognizable display of culture is through the marching bands. Many schools enjoy a marching band during football season. However, at Millwood, like many schools that serve a large African American community, the marching band is just as popular (if not more so), as the football team.

Heavy on the base and snare drums, absent of much percussion outside of drums, and fully prepared to play instruments, twirl flags and batons, and dance, the marching band at Millwood High School provides a show during and after the game each week. The marching band provides the game soundtrack, which includes the alma mater and the fight song, but the band also provides the soundtrack to life. The band plays songs from the past and present and considers it disrespectful if both sides of the field don’t dance and sing along. The tradition of Black Marching Bands is rooted in the HBCU (Historically Black College and University) style and is emulated across the nation on Friday nights.

These combinations of unique representations at Millwood demonstrate the school’s identity. Competitors around the state generally enjoy increased attendance when Millwood comes to town because they know that we will have our culture and traditions on full display. Providing a platform for the expression of our culture is one of the many gifts of high school sports.

Acknowledging, valuing and supporting these rich traditions is the role and responsibility of the superintendent and is one that I deeply treasure. As a leader of school communities that helps guide and shape the future of our nation, we would be remiss in not utilizing these encounters as cultural enrichment experiences. Our recognition of these unique expressions gives credence, and helps others open up, to various means of expression.

As hosts and consumers who participate in high school sports around the nation, we should take a closer look at what is on display. What is likely to be seen are expressions of cultural traditions mixed with pride and tradition. Allow yourself to be drawn into the celebration, notice the intricacies and honor the tradition.