Souls in Jubilation

A Great Day at Juilliard

Earlier this school year—it seems so very long ago now—the Juilliard Black Student Union invited all the Black students at Juilliard to get together for a photo on the front steps of the school. It was a moment that evoked the famous 1958 Art Kane photo of famous jazz musicians (“A Great Day in Harlem”)—all that creativity and beauty in one place at one time! But mainly it captured the exuberance of these amazing young artists working together. “In all of my 20 years working here, this is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen—this is something to celebrate,” Ms. Peters, a Juilliard security guard, said at the time. Afterward, fourth-year acting student Jalen Coleman, who was the president of the JBSU this year, asked some of the participants to reflect on that joyous moment.

By Jalen Coleman

It’s incredible to be surrounded by so many Black artists who possess an inexplicable expressivity through and commitment to their craft. We are learning, growing, and fostering relationships that will foster some dope Black collaborations! I loved being a part of this photo and this community.
Marion Grey, first-year actor

The Black community at Juilliard is truly special to me, and I’m glad we got to come together and get a picture of this historic moment.
Cali Hollister, second-year dancer

I felt so appreciated, recognized, and empowered for one of the first times in the school. It was a beautiful moment that served a purpose bigger than me or my friends. It allowed people to look at that picture, see a reflection of themselves, and say, “I can do that too.”
Bethlehem Hagdu, second-year violist

Oh, to be young, gifted, and Black. I’ll never forget that day. The vibrance of our souls in jubilation was captured in all its purity and truth. Our complexities danced together yet again on the steps of the vehicle that will launch us out and into the Whirlwind World. I’ll never forget that day. Oh, to be young, gifted, and Black!
Jacob Daniel Smith, fourth-year actor

Dance has always been an outlet for me to express individuality in all aspects of life. I am here because I am doing what I love and making my ancestors proud. While hoping to inspire others to do the same. This picture represents so much.
Robert Jamie Mason, second-year dancer

The photo made me feel empowered. It made me feel seen and heard. We still have a ways to go, but it’s important to take the time to acknowledge progress and beauty when we see it.
Jeffery Miller, second-year master’s jazz trombonist

Fourth-year drama student Jalen Coleman holds Mel Silverman and Irene Diamond scholarships as well as a Barbara and Gary Brandt Family Scholarship in Drama