MIDLAND, Texas — Black History Month is a time to celebrate stories past and present. The Midland Storytelling Festival started a new tradition three years ago to highlight unique stories and share them with the community.
"I am always thrilled to tell the stories of those who helped us to be who and what we are," said Executive Director of Midland Storytelling Festival Sue Roseberry.
Roseberry has been a part of the festival since its origin in 1992 and just three years ago, it expanded to highlight stories of black culture.
"I think that it's becoming something that people throughout our community of all races enjoys, and they get a chance to come to this beautiful museum and hear music and experience a cultural expression in a way that they don't get to enjoy every day," Roseberry said.
The festival included spoken word by International Story Teller Bobby Norfolk and storytelling through song by the West Texas Chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America.
"It was a breath of fresh air to hear the gospel choir to hear what Bobby's words we're in to talk about our history and how inclusive it really can be and what the differences are and how we're similar too," said Mary Katherine Marshall, director of development and communications for Museum of the Southwest.
Marshall said the Museum works diligently to provide opportunities for diversity to Midland.
"We pride ourselves at the museum on having something for everyone. And this is one of the ways that we can do that," Marshall said. "You know, art, culture, science, and history is something that is a part of our mission at the museum. And by having stories passed down. That's a part of our history. It's a part of our culture. And that's a really truly an art in and of itself that we don't want to see be lost.
Roseberry is very passionate about sharing stories and encourages the community to embrace all the festival has to offer.
"My favorite part is watching the faces of people as they engage with participants because we already kind of anticipate what they're going to do but seeing the audience grab ahold to it and how it resonates with them is the best part," said Roseberry.
Every culture is unique, but there is always room for people to celebrate one with another.