Valdosta, Georgia, made history on February 22, 2025, by hosting its first-ever Black History Month parade. The event, led by Sam Allen, the city’s first Black superintendent, celebrated Black excellence, education, and community legacy. The parade brought together residents, leaders, and families to honor the rich history and future of Valdosta’s Black community.
A Historic Moment for Valdosta
The parade marked a significant milestone for Valdosta, a city with deep roots in Black history. Sam Allen, Valdosta City Schools Superintendent Emeritus, emphasized the importance of remembering and teaching history. “We have to take every avenue to reintroduce to our children where they came from,” Allen said. His leadership highlighted the value of education in preserving legacy.
The event took place on Valdosta’s South Side, a historic district once home to prominent Black educators, doctors, and entrepreneurs. Kristina Cheek, Brand Ambassador for the Southern Georgia Black Chambers, called it “the heartbeat of African American history and culture.” The parade route symbolized the community’s resilience and progress.
Honoring Education and Community
Education was a central theme of the parade. The Clemons family, with over 350 years of combined service in education, was celebrated for their contributions. Krystal Thomas, a Valdosta City Schools educator, expressed pride in her family’s impact. “It’s good to be part of a family that has made this much impact on the community,” she said.
Betty Clemons-Thomas, Krystal’s mother, encouraged others to follow in their footsteps. “If my siblings can do it, my nieces, nephews, and other people can do it as well,” she said. The Clemons family’s dedication to education inspired many attendees, reinforcing the parade’s message of hope and empowerment.
Building a Legacy of Togetherness
Sam Allen’s role as the city’s first Black superintendent added a layer of significance to the event. He has worked tirelessly to build a legacy of love and togetherness in Valdosta. “We can’t let politics dictate our history,” Allen stated, emphasizing the need for unity and awareness.
Sandra Tooley, a former City Councilwoman and Southside Community Care House advocate, echoed this sentiment. “Making awareness is going to give them hope,” she said. Tooley grew up on the South Side and witnessed its vibrant history. She urged young people to return and contribute to the community’s growth.
Southern Georgia Black Chambers’ Mission
The Southern Georgia Black Chambers (SGBC) played a key role in organizing the parade. As the first Black chamber to serve rural South Georgia, SGBC focuses on advancing Black communities through education and awareness. Kristina Cheek highlighted their mission: “We do more than just business. We influence policy and serve the community in all aspects.”
The parade was a powerful way for SGBC to make its presence known. It also served as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to uplift Black communities. Cheek described the event as a “wonderful way to come in with a blast and make our presence known.”
A Celebration of Past and Future
Valdosta’s first Black History Month parade was more than just a celebration of the past. It was a call to action for the future. The event honored the achievements of Black leaders while inspiring the next generation to continue the legacy.
Sam Allen and other community leaders emphasized the importance of education, unity, and awareness. The parade was a testament to Valdosta’s rich history and its commitment to building a brighter future. As Sandra Tooley put it, “The reward will be wonderful” for those who invest in their community.
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