‘Legacy’ play celebrates Black History Month by remembering civil rights leaders

Community members came out to see the “Legacy” on Saturday in celebration of Black History Month at the Enon Tabernacle Church. Presented at faith-based institutions, recreational centers, local high schools and the African-American Museum, “Legacy” looks to empower youth in knowing they can do great things.

The play portrays African-American teenager Corey Sheppard (played by Justin Booker) whose laidback attitude towards his education and future gets him into a fight with his mom. As Corey falls asleep, African- American forefathers and civil rights leaders such as Frederick Douglass, Marcus Garvey, Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr. and Huey P. Newton pay him a visit. They discuss issues of racial profiling, police brutality and the affects it has on the community.

“The play Legacy is about making sure we understand the rich history of African-American culture. It infuses the past with the present with the depth of knowledge for us to continually build, grow and unite as a nation. I think it’s a transforming tool to uplift people, no matter their race, religion or lifestyle,” said Jeffery Jones, who works for Childhoods Lost Entertainment, the production company that put on “Legacy.”