By Gabriella DeLuca, ’27

Staff Writer

5 minutes. 154 bullets. 26 deaths.

In only five minutes – the same amount of time it takes to respond to a text message, make a to-do list, or brew a cup of coffee – 26 innocent lives were lost. In just a matter of minutes, dozens of families across Newtown, Connecticut, were forever fractured. In just five minutes, the nation as a whole was forced to face a grim new reality—one with 26 bright, innocent lights extinguished far too soon.

Because of the violence that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary School, Olivia Engel, a girl who loved to laugh, never got to share another joke with her little brother.

Avielle Richman, an adventurous girl who rarely missed out on a chance to have fun, never got to embark on another adventure.

Jesse Lewis, a boy who loved spending time with his grandmother, never got to make the gingerbread house he had been looking forward to making with her for months.

Daniel Barden, who loved spending time at the beach with his family, would never ride another wave again.

And Rachel D’Avino, a beloved teacher at Sandy Hook, never got the chance to say yes to her best friend’s proposal.

All this happened in under five minutes. Yet, the warning signs were visible long before the first shots were fired. In the days leading up to this tragedy, something could have been done to prevent these 26 lives from being cut devastatingly short. In less than five minutes—the same fleeting amount of time it took for the shooting to occur—a warning sign could have been identified, an insight been reported to a trusted adult, or the National Crisis Center been notified. But this intervention did not occur, and the result was the loss of these innocent lives.

The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting took place on the morning of December 14th, 2012, and left the world to face a reality plagued by this brutal act of violence. However, instead of allowing this tragedy to define them, several family members whose loved ones were lost in the shooting united to turn “tragedy to transformation” in an effort to ensure such a catastrophe would never happen again.

Officially founded on January 14th, 2013, exactly one year and one month after the shooting, the Sandy Hook Promise Foundation was created. This nonprofit organization pledged to protect the children of America from gun violence in honor of the lives lost at Sandy Hook. With a staff of more than 100 people, including co-founder and CEO Nicole Hockley, as well co-founder Mark Barden, who both lost their children in the shooting, this foundation is dedicated to spreading its message to communities nationwide, starting at the student level.

This past March, our school was visited by Keeley Rogers, a presenter from Sandy Hook Promise, who shared the foundation’s powerful and inspiring message with students. One of Rogers’ most important points was how to prevent tragedies like the one that occurred at Sandy Hook before they even begin. In over 80 percent of school shootings, according to the organization, at least one other person had knowledge of the perpetrator’s plan but failed to report it. This highlights the importance of recognizing warning signs of violence and the true value of reporting these threats to a trusted individual.

One of the most common warning signs of violence includes isolation or sudden withdrawal from social interactions, including communication with friends and family, Rogers said. This is concerning as it shows that this person no longer finds the same comfort in engaging with the people they had once enjoyed spending time with, hinting that something greater is occurring internally. Another warning signal is extreme mood changes, such as excessive irritability, hostile behaviors, and bullying. This can also include the expression of thoughts of harming themselves or others, which suggests that the person is suffering severe psychological distress and needs immediate intervention. The last warning sign is an interest in school shootings, guns, and other forms of weaponry, as it demonstrates that this person may be truly considering committing an act of violence.

These warning signs can be witnessed in person, on social media, or through other online platforms, Rogers shared. According to Sandy Hook Promise, if you witness any of these signs, there are three important steps you can take, the first being to tell a trusted adult. A trusted adult is defined as a reliable and caring individual over the age of 18. This can be a teacher, a parent, a coach, a relative, or any other person whom you trust to make you feel safe, heard, and respected. The second step you can take, if you do not feel comfortable telling someone in person or wish to remain anonymous, is to use an online reporting system. On our Hanover Public School’s homepage, under the See/Say Something icon, you can report potential threats or dangerous activities that pose a risk to our school community. Once this form is filled out and submitted, it is sent to our School Resource Officer, Officer John Voelkel, as well as your school’s current principal. The third step you can take when witnessing a potential threat is contacting the Sandy Hook Promise National Crisis Center, which offers 24/7 access to a trusted adult. This can be done by filling out a message in the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System that can be reached by clicking this link.

As a nation, Rogers said, we can come together to honor the victims of gun violence by preventing further tragedies like the one that occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary School. If we all unite to protect innocent lives from being taken, we can effectively turn an instance of tragedy into a future of transformation.

To learn more about the Sandy Hook Promise or to get involved in the organization, click this link.

By Bella Ciccolo, ’26

Staff Writer and DECA president

Over the past three years, DECA has had a profound impact within our community. The significant growth and achievement of the club, part of a global organization highlighting careers in business, is a direct reflection of the hard work of many students. Not only have these young leaders learned about business, but they have also developed valuable communication and critical thinking skills that apply to any profession.

In its first year as a club, 13 students signed up. Ready to register as one of about 4,500 chapters around the world, students discovered they had missed the deadline. Instead of feeling defeated, DECA members spent the year building a strong foundation through practice roleplays and fundraising. 

“Starting a club as a sophomore can be very intimidating and scary at first, especially when people don’t know about it,” said Senior Katie Jones, who was part of those initial efforts and now serves as vice president. “It was challenging to grow awareness at first, but once we learned more and worked together, we became successful.”

In year two, the club grew to 24 members and officially registered as a chapter. The group took part in the District One competition, where students from the region who have studied a business topic are evaluated on their knowledge and professionalism with roleplays, case studies or presentations. Competitiors also must take a 100-question exam about business careers. In that first competition, six members placed and four students qualified for states. These awards were impressive considering the pool of highly qualified students competing; more experienced chapters such as Marshfield, Plymouth North, and Pembroke each have more than 100 members. 

This year, DECA has seen its most significant growth due to the dedication of the executive board of seniors Jones, Hope Miller, Grace Gilligan, Dylan Poirier and Bella Ciccolo. The club grew to six times its previous size and now has more than 80 members. At an informational meeting in September, the crowd overflowed the room.

“It was so exciting to see the growth and I’m very proud of what we’ve accomplished with this club,” Jones said. 

“I loved being able to be a part of a community where I was with my close friends but also a place where everyone wants to thrive and work their hardest,” added Gilligan.

The club participated in the District conference in January and the results were outstanding. Hanover earned 13 medals and 11 trophies! Ciccolo and Poirier took 1st place in Entrepreneurship Team Decision Making, seniors Brianna Adams and Sienna Lamond won 2nd place in Marketing Management Team Decision Making, seniors Marina Khalil and Anna Parker earned 3rd place in Hospitality Services Team Decision Making, junior Jolie Coviello won 3rd place in Principles of Entrepreneurship, seniors Bryan Collins and Leo Galvin earned 4th place in Travel and Tourism Marketing Team Decision Making, sophomores Luca Ciccolo and Grant Miller placed 5th in Financial Services Team Decision Making, junior Audrey Martin and sophomore Allie Waterman medaled in Entrepreneurship Team Decision Making, and sophomore Matt Farrell medaled in Principles of Hospitality and Tourism.

The students who earned trophies also earned seats at the state conference in March. DECA’s advisor, Mr. Ciccolo, an HHS business and computer science teacher, worked to secure sponsorships so students could attend the state conference for free rather than paying the $600 fee. “We have networked significantly, gaining sponsorships from local businesses and fundraising to reduce financial barriers in this year’s district, state, and national competitions,” said Poirier, the club’s treasurer.

At states, the team of Adams and Lamond earned 5th place in Marketing Management Team Decision Making and a trip to the international competition April 25-28 in Atlanta, Ga. This is an incredible accomplishment not just for these two students, but for a club in just its third year.

“For the past two years, we have been able to improve our presentation and communication skills as well as our general knowledge about marketing, economics, and the field of business as a whole,” Adams said. “These are skills we will truly carry with us forever, and we have DECA to thank for that.” 

“DECA gave us the space to explore our business interests, and now we’re suddenly going to compete at internationals,” Lamond added. “We’re excited to compete with students from across the country who are also passionate about business, and have the opportunity to network and prepare ourselves for whatever future career we may seek.”

One of the goals set for – and met – this year was to involve as many underclassmen as possible so the club would last beyond the graduation of many of the original members. With such a strong showing at the district competition by sophomores and juniors, the executive board is confident that the club will continue to thrive in the future.

“Being a part of DECA these past three years has truly been one of my favorite aspects of high school,” said Poirier. “This success is attributed to the dedication of the many growing student leaders of DECA, and the organization’s expansion is something I am immensely proud to be a part of.”

By Gabriella DeLuca, ’27 and Jolie Coviello, ’27

Staff Writers

Every spring, the community comes together to celebrate the Hanover Schools Annual District Arts Festival. This year’s celebration, which took place on April 7 at Hanover High School, presented the artistic and musical talents of students across grades K-12. Mr. Michael File, an HHS art teacher who helped coordinate the event, said, “The Arts Festival gave students of all ages the opportunity to showcase their talents and celebrate their unique artistic journey with their families, teachers, and peers.”

During the festival, students from the elementary to high school level shared the spotlight as they presented their artwork and musical performances to the community. On the main auditorium stage, large-ensemble performances included “Joy Revisited” by the HHS Symphonic Band,  “900 Miles” by the HHS Chorus and Vox, several songs by the Cedar/Center Combined Choir, and a rousing set by the HMS Jazz Ensemble. The HHS rock band Altitude closed out the night with a cover of Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin.” On a second stage in the HHS media room, small collections of student musicians came together to perform. Highlights included a performance by the cast of Shrek Jr. and the band To Be Determined’s rendition of “Champagne Supernova” by Oasis. Another unforgettable performance was presented by junior Finn McCabe, who played his own original piano piece, titled “The Least of These,” which was inspired by his Christian background and love for the B-flat major.

In the school gymnasium, student artwork was displayed for all to see in various styles. Among the exhibits were egg carton animals created by Cedar School kindergartners with Ms. Leanne Malfa, paper mache masks made by Mr. Aaron DiGaudio’s sixth grade art class, and the sophisticated ceramic pieces of the high school 3D art class. Featured as well were the expressive 2D and 3D art portfolios of the high school’s AP Art students, showcasing the artists’ dedication to creating meaningful thematic art.

One AP Art student, junior Jenna Clasby, devoted her work to the people who have a special value in her life. Made from a mix of colored pencils and oil pastels, Jenna’s self-portraits showcase her childhood journey and values. Junior Siena Oliver, another AP Art student, created a portfolio with a similar emphasis on childhood memories and nostalgia. One of her favorite pieces is a painting of the Pilgrim Monument in Provincetown, featuring a frame she made with her grandfather using wood fragments taken from the monument’s old fence.

Many artists also explored existentialism and the human relationship with nature. Senior AP artist Elizabeth Winnie used acrylic paints to express how the ocean can evoke varying emotions in people based on their individual perspectives. Senior Bella Telepak depicted the duality of death and the absence of consideration for nature’s creatures using her expressive mixed media artwork.

Another impressive display was presented by Owen Cleary, a junior in AP Art. Owen captivated viewers with his hyperrealistic depictions of supernatural creatures, having spent days perfecting each piece to the most minute detail. These pieces were inspired by some of his favorite video games and horror films. 

The artwork and musical creativity of the students of Hanover were the highlights of the night; however, what made it truly unforgettable was seeing the meaningful connections the students formed with one another through their shared love for art and music. Caroline Heaney, a junior in the high school’s Vox chorus, described the group as being a “close community of friends who bonded over their shared love for singing.” A similar sentiment was expressed by junior drum major Sophie Bunar, who said that being a part of the high school band is not only about performing on stage, but about meeting new people and forming authentic friendships that will last a lifetime. 

Click on a photo to enlarge. Photos by Gabriella DeLuca and Luca Ciccolo

By Charlize Coviello, ’29

Staff Writer

April is Alcohol Awareness Month, when we promote the understanding of alcohol use and abuse. This month offers an opportunity to develop knowledge of the struggle that is often faced when people misuse alcohol. Researchers have estimated that each year there are more than 178,000 deaths due to alcohol. Misuse affects the lives and health of many teenagers as well, diminishing their everyday abilities. Additionally, there are more than 200 disease- and injury-related conditions associated with alcohol misuse, including liver cirrhosis, various cancers, heart disease, strokes, and alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Misuse of alcohol is dangerous, especially for the body. Some short-term effects include trauma, alcohol poisoning, violent tendencies, and reproductive issues. Examples of trauma from acute use include injuries from motor vehicle crashes, falls, burns, and drowning. When individuals are under the influence of alcohol, they lose awareness of their actions, leading to potential trauma and violence.

Studies show that there is a higher risk of becoming a perpetrator or victim of physical or sexual violence when alcohol is misused. Excessive drinking commonly leads to acute poisoning, which can lead to comas, convulsions, or death. Reproductive and prenatal problems can also easily arise in those who abuse alcohol. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), miscarriages, and stillbirths are seen in those who misuse alcohol before or during pregnancy. Other risks include severe alcohol withdrawal syndromes requiring emergency medical care. 

Short-term abuse affects the user greatly; however, it does not impact health as much as long-term abuse can. Long-term abuse damages the brain, liver, immune system, and digestive system. Conditions from the prolonged misuse of alcohol include liver disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, digestive and endocrine issues, neurological/brain damage, and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia.

Liver diseases can include cirrhosis, fatty liver, and alcoholic hepatitis. Drinking alcohol affects the liver by forcing it to prioritize the metabolism of ethanol in the alcohol over its hundreds of other critical bodily functions — causing the organ the most immediate and severe damage. The risk of cancers of the liver, mouth, throat, esophagus, breast, and bowel increase with more consumption. Alcohol abuse causes cancer by breaking down ethanol into acetaldehyde, a toxic chemical that damages DNA and prevents cells from repairing themselves. It induces chronic inflammation, increasing hormone levels such as estrogen and lowering nutrient absorption, particularly damaging the mouth, throat, liver, and breasts. Additionally, high blood pressure, strokes, and weakened heart muscles can arise from alcohol abuse through toxic damage to heart muscle cells. Excessive consumption induces oxidative stress, causing strokes, heart attacks, and heart failure.

Alcohol abuse affects people in many more ways than can be covered in a short article. It is a serious topic that has an underestimated potential to ruin lives quickly. Many teenagers and adults abuse liquor without knowing the risk and jeopardy they are putting themselves in. Alcohol Awareness Month was started in 1987 by the National Council of Alcohol and Drug Dependence to raise awareness among the general public about the dangers of alcohol misuse, reduce stigma, and provide treatment resources. This month is held annually to focus on community education, support for those in recovery, and encouragement of alcohol-free weekends. Campaigns emphasize preventing underage drinking, educating on the health effects of excessive drinking, and offering resources for families. It serves to reduce the discrimination associated with addiction, making it easier for people to seek help. To encourage care, look out for warning signs, including being unable to cut back, drinking to cope, or excessive consumption despite problems in personal or professional life. Recognizing abuse early not only helps the abuser but also the people around them such as their family and friends, as alcohol misuse can ruin relationships and derail a person’s professional and personal life.

April is not just a time to read statistics but a call to act. By engaging in open conversations about alcohol use and providing support for treatment, the cycle of addiction can be stopped, and communities can take a step in moving toward a healthier, more transparent future.

Works Cited

“Alcohol and Heart Health: Separating Fact from Fiction.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/alcohol-and-heart-health-separating-fact-from-fiction. Accessed 10 April 2026.

“Alcohol Awareness Month.” SAMHSA, 30 March 2026, https://www.samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits/alcohol-awareness-month. Accessed 25 March 2026.

“Alcohol Use and Cancer.” American Cancer Society, The American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team, 3 November 2025, https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/diet-physical-activity/alcohol-use-and-cancer.html#:~:text=Folate%20is%20a%20vitamin%20that,Addiction. Accessed 27 March 2026.

“April is Alcohol Awareness Month | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).” National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), 1 April 2025, https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/news-events/announcement/april-alcohol-awareness-month. Accessed 25 March 2026.

Backman, Isabella. “Alcohol Use Disorder Harms the Brain’s Immune System Earlier in Women.” Yale School of Medicine, 12 June 2025, https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/alcohol-use-disorder-harms-the-brains-immune-system-earlier-in-women/. Accessed 8 April 2026.

“Neurological Effects of Alcohol: Impact of Alcohol on the Brian.” American Addiction Centers, 17 March 2025, https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcohol/risks-effects-dangers/neurological. Accessed 10 April 2026.

Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. “Alcohol Awareness month.” oklahoma.gov, 16 April 2024, https://oklahoma.gov/odmhsas/about/blog/2024/alcohol-awareness-month.html#:~:text=Excessive%20drinking%20can%20also%20damage,of%20alcohol%20abuse%20may%20include:.

Osna, Natalia A et al. “Alcoholic Liver Disease: Pathogenesis and Current Management.” Accessed 9 April 2026. Alcohol research : current reviews vol. 38,2 (2017): 147-161. doi:10.35946/arcr.v38.2.01

Rachdaoui, Nadia, and Dipak K Sarkar. “Pathophysiology of the Effects of Alcohol Abuse on the Endocrine System.” Alcohol research : current reviews vol. 38,2 (2017): 255-276. doi:10.35946/arcr.v38.2.08 Accessed 10 April 2026.

Shivani, Ramesh et al. “Alcoholism and Psychiatric Disorders: Diagnostic Challenges.” Alcohol Research & Health vol. 26,2 (2002): 90–98. Accessed 25 March 2026.

By Samuel Frattasio ’27

News Editor

Another debate season is in the books!  The Hanover High School team made great individual progress and improved dramatically this year. Sure, our competitive spirit makes us want to beat our opponent in each match, and two of our debaters finished at the top of the league. However, standings and sheer results don’t tell the whole story of our growth as a team. The continuous development of each person’s skills, confidence and general understanding of how to prepare for each match progressed week after week.

People outside the world of debate may be unaware of how exactly the competition works. As one of 15 schools in the Southeastern Massachusetts Debate League, Hanover takes part in five meets each year. Each meet has two rounds, and debaters are paired up with students of similar abilities in Novice or Varsity divsions. Debaters are given a topic to resolve, with this year’s focusing on government funding of research and development in the Arctic. Two-person teams are designated as “affirmative” or “negative;” affirmatives write an argument and find data to back up their points, and negatives conduct research to anticipate and disprove those arguments. At each debate, an affirmative from one school faces a negative from another, and they engage in a series of arguments and rebuttals in front of a judge. The team that best delivers their case, based on several criteria, wins the debate. Debaters can earn individual speaker points for persuasiveness, organization, charisma and style. From one meet to the next, debaters strive to increase their knowledge and improve their performances.

This season, in particular, showcased our team’s progress through several impressive accomplishments. Seniors Abbey Corbo and Alana Cole competed in the league Finals, finishing in first place in the varsity division. Their accomplishments secured the 2026 debate league championship title for Hanover. I placed third in the league standing for the “negative” varsity speaker points, while freshmen Samantha Kwan and Avery Welch both had outstanding seasons.

Strong personal performances and consistency as a team throughout the season positions us well for next year! These achievements reflect not only individual talent but also our collective strength. As Mrs. Gately, advisor of the Debate Team, reflected on the season, she said she was proud of the team’s accomplishments and the way students worked hard to improve their arguments and debating skills. She also thanked seniors Cole, Corbo, Bradlee Dowling, Liam Anderson and Aine Scanlan for serving as talented debaters, leaders, and mentors to the novice members.

With each season, the debate program continues to build on its success, setting an even higher standard for the years to come. If interested in joining the team next year, when the resolve will focus on government-funded universal health care, please see Mrs. Gately in the World Languages wing.

By Gabriella DeLuca, ’27

Staff Writer

On April 22nd, our country will celebrate the 56th anniversary of the world’s largest environmental movement: Earth Day. On this day, billions of people across the globe come together to honor the planet we call home. From attending protests to planting trees, and even contacting elected officials about environmental policies, this movement has inspired many to take action and promote environmental protection. Yet, how did this celebration begin? And how can the public support the environment and show appreciation to planet Earth?

The History of Earth Day

In the decades leading up to the first Earth Day in 1970, our environment was in a devastating state. In urban cities across the country, pollution from automobiles and factories filled the air with smoke, raw sewage and oil spills flowed down the streets, and pesticides threatened to end the life of Earth’s most beautiful creatures. Deforestation reached unprecedented levels, and dangerous toxins turned the once fresh and pure air into a dark, suffocating smog. Our planet faced a grim future.

Despite these ecological tragedies, many individuals were largely unaware and detached from the environmental issue. Far too consumed by materialism and a desire for wealth, the majority of Americans became largely oblivious to the devastating impact their industrial endeavors were having on the planet. However, a few brave and dedicated individuals who recognized the need for action spoke out and inspired a movement for environmental change.

The Environmental Pioneers

As industrialization in the United States accelerated in the mid-20th century, so did the use of chemicals and pesticides due to their ability to boost agricultural production. However, with this practice came a devastating cost to the Earth and its living creatures. This threat of environmental disaster inspired marine biologist and nature writer Rachel Carson to write her world-renowned book, Silent Spring, which exposed the dangers that pesticide use, specifically DDT, posed for the Earth and all its creatures. Silent Spring, published in 1962, emphasized the need to protect the natural world, arguing that instead of industrial pursuits and economic success, “the real wealth of the Nation lies … in the resources of the Earth: soil, water, forests, minerals and wildlife.” Her scientific work, which sold over 500,000 copies in more than 20 different countries, is widely regarded as the first foundational act of modern environmental activism, and is credited with galvanizing the conservation movement in the United States.

Largely influenced by Carson’s Silent Spring and the 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill, Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson was propelled to address the environmental crisis. Witnessing how both the public and the federal government were failing to address the environmental issue, Nelson organized a national demonstration to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment. Nelson recruited Denis Hayes, a prominent American environmentalist, to coordinate the nation’s very first Earth Day in 1970. In order to maximize student participation in the movement, Hayes chose to hold the event on April 22nd, which fell between Spring Break and final exams. The first Earth Day inspired over 20 million people throughout the country to protest against the impact of industrial development and the government’s failure to address the present environmental destruction. This national demonstration resulted in unprecedented success, leading to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as well as legal mechanisms to protect the environment, such as the National Environmental Education Act and Clean Air Act. In addition, and due in large part to Carson’s profound influence, the usage of DDT was banned. Earth Day continued to grow and became a global holiday in 1990.

Continuing the Legacy

We only get one Earth, one planet to support life today and for centuries to come, which is why it is vital that we protect it. Despite the remarkable success of environmental pioneers such as Rachel Carson and Gaylord Nelson, many activists argue there is still more work to be done to continue to honor the legacy created for us.

Today, global warming is accelerating at an unprecedented rate. With the increased emission of fossil fuels into the atmosphere, the future of our Earth is at stake. According to deputy executive secretary and climatologist Ko Barret, “Between 2015 and 2025, we experienced the hottest 11 years on record.” This rapid increase in global temperatures is only expected to increase in the years ahead, posing a significant threat to life and Earth’s biodiversity. This has caused activists around the world to urge the community to take action in order to reverse the effects of global warming and save our planet Earth. Below are some of the most effective ways of getting involved in our modern environmental movement.

Reduce, Reuse & Recycle

Plant a Garden

Considering how much we take from the natural world, planting a garden allows us to add something to it, and support the planet’s biodiversity. The addition of plants, flowers, and fruits to the natural environment significantly improves air quality, which is being increasingly threatened by global warming. Since plants take in carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, this reduces the carbon in the atmosphere and helps to mitigate global warming. The leaves of trees and plants also help to remove harmful dust particles from the air, which can be detrimental to Earth’s living creatures. Additionally, planting a garden helps to reduce runoff and conserve water, which limits harmful chemicals from entering bodies of water that are dangerous to wildlife. This also benefits the soil by adding moisture and nutrients to enhance its overall health and value. Planting a garden with plenty of fruits and nutrients helps support pollinators and other creatures, such as birds, bees, and butterflies, who rely on fresh vegetation to live.

Conserve the Earth’s Water Supply

Did you know that only about 3 percent of the earth’s water is fresh water? And that only about 0.5 percent of that fresh water is available due to a large majority being locked in glaciers and ice caps or highly polluted? As the population on Earth continues to increase, we need to be aware of the importance of conserving our planet’s water supply before it is too late.

In today’s society, with the rising usage of artificial intelligence, our water supply is facing a new threat. This is due to the fact that the data centers that control large AI models require significant amounts of power to run the advanced form of technology. In turn, this immense power causes the emission of large amounts of heat, which requires vast cooling systems to counteract the heating process. These cooling systems often rely on an abundant supply of freshwater, which threatens our environment’s water supply, which is already low.

Other than limiting AI usage, other great ways to conserve water include, turning off the faucet when brushing your teeth, shortening the length of your showers, and running the dishwasher and washing machine only when fully loaded. In addition, it is important to dump leftover ice from your drinks in the sink, rather than in the trash. This habit saves water by allowing it to re-enter the water supply and not be lost in the garbage.

Support Your Local Farmers Market

Another simple yet effective way to support the environment is by shopping at your local farmers market. Purchasing locally grown produce allows farmers to continue practicing sustainable agriculture, which is healthier for the environment than conventional farming. This is due to the fact that large-scale producers typically use an abundance of pesticides and chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Also, products sold at local farmers markets travel shorter distances compared to imported goods, and thus release less transportation- related pollution.

The Hanover Farmers Market in our hometown opens for its 6th season in May of this year. The market will be open from 10:30am – 1:30pm on the third Sunday of each month from May to October. This year, organizers are planning to hold this event on the green at Hanover Crossing. To learn more about our local farmers market click the link.

Join Environmental Clubs

If you are interested in more ways to help the environment, you should consider joining an environmental club. Our school offers Dirty Works Club, Eco-Club, and Green Team, which all make a positive impact on our community!

Supporting the environment can make a difference in our own lives and for generations to come. Considering all the amazing things our planet does for us, every day should be Earth Day!

Works Cited

“The History of Earth Day.” Earth Day, 2024, http://www.earthday.org/history/.

United Nations. “Actions for a Healthy Planet.” United Nations, United Nations, http://www.un.org/en/actnow/ten-actions.

United States Geological Survey. “The Distribution of Water On, In, and above the Earth.” Usgs.gov, 25 Oct. 2019, http://www.usgs.gov/media/images/distribution-water-and-above-earth.

US EPA. “EPA History: Earth Day | US EPA.” US EPA, 14 Mar. 2019, http://www.epa.gov/history/epa-history-earth-day.

Zewe, Adam. “Explained: Generative AI’s Environmental Impact.” MIT News, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 17 Jan. 2025, news.mit.edu/2025/explained-generative-ai-environmental-impact-0117.

By The Hawk Staff

Hanover High School students have earned recent accolades in the areas of music, art, and public speaking. Whether on the stage, in the studio or at the podium, these Hawks have shown that hard work, creativity, and passion can help you soar.

Vocal and Instrumental Music

After being postponed by the Blizzard of 2026, the HHS Jazz Ensemble finally got to perform at the MAJE Cape Cod-Coastal Jazz Festival at New Bedford High School on March 3. After extensive rehearsals, sectionals, and individual practice, students performed for three adjudicators. The ensemble received a Silver Rating, improving by several points from our last trip in 2024 and a hiatus due to budget constraints last year. After the performance, the band received a clinic from George Murphy, retired band director and decorated jazz educator from the Foxboro Public Schools. The band will incorporate feedback from all of the adjudicators as we prepare for our spring performances and beyond. Special awards were given to juniors Maria-Rita Silva, Daniel Freedman, and Ronan Blum for outstanding musicianship.

Anna Dillon and Avery Porro, both juniors, were accepted into the Massachusetts Music Educators Association All-State Festival. Anna qualified for the Treble Choir and Avery made the Mixed Choir. They were chosen from more than a thousand Massachusetts students who auditioned in January. The festival will take place March 20-21 in Worcester, where top students from across the state will work with collegiate and professional conductors at the top of the field. The ensembles will perform an afternoon concert at the Hanover Theatre in Worcester on March 21. 

Anna, Avery and 20 other HHS students were accepted to the SEMSBA Senior Festival after auditions Feb. 7, a record number for our school (see image below for full list). SEMSBA, which is the Southeast Massachusetts School Bandmasters Association, will combine students from the region’s schools for performances to be held March 13-14 at Plymouth North High School and Plymouth Memorial Hall.

Junior Maria-Rita Silva and sophomore Ben Smith were selected for the High School Honor Band, an annual program run by the UMass Amherst Music Department. Ben played principal Baritone Saxophone in the Bronnenkant band and Maria-Rita played principal/solo flute in the Westgate band. The students had sectionals and master classes with UMass applied faculty and current students, and then rehearsed with other students from across Massachusetts for a performance on Feb. 21 at the UMass Fine Arts Center. A highlight was the chance to work with Michele Fernández, a professional composer and conductor. 

You can hear these talented musicians and more in performances at the Hanover District Arts Fest on April 7 and the Spring Concert on April 30, both at HHS. Congrats to all the performers, and to music teachers Mr. Harden and Mr. Wade for their instruction and support.

Scholastic Art Awards

Juniors Siena Oliver and Owen Cleary were recognized by the Scholastic Awards, a competition among teens across the United States and Canada. Siena won a Silver Key for her piece “Beach Day,” rendered in colored pencil on paper. Owen won honorable mention for his pieces “Monster” and “Empty,” which were both made with graphite on paper.

The Scholastic Awards is the nation’s longest-running and best-known recognition program for creative teens. Each year, more than 100,000 students in grades 7-12 enter their art and writing for a chance to receive recognition, exhibition, and scholarships. While students submit their own work, they are guided at HHS by art teachers Mr. File and Mrs. Curley.

You can see more work from these and other talented artists at the Hanover Schools District Arts Fest at HHS on April 7.

Click on an image to see a larger version and a caption.

Lions Club Speech Contest

Junior Siena Oliver has advanced to the state round of the Lions Club Youth Speech Competition, the first HHS student to do so in recent history. The annual contest, sponsored by the international service organization, gives high school students a chance to write and then present publicly a speech on a topic of general interest. This year’s prompt was “what can past America teach future America?” Siena spoke about how letters from historical figures such as Abigail Adams, Martin Luther King Jr., and ordinary people teach us to stay connected today despite technological advancements. Her speech included a story about writing to President Barack Obama when she was little and asking him to be her pen pal; he wrote back! Siena won the school and district competitions to advance to states, which will be held March 28. About 400 students from across Massachusetts take part in the speech contest each year.

By Ryan Costello, ’27

Staff Writer/Social Media Editor

After three months as an intern in the Hanover municipal government, I have learned a surplus of knowledge of its functions and operations. Working with Town Manager Joe Colangelo, I have been assigned tasks and projects that have broadened my understanding of local government. I have had the privilege of attending various meetings, such as the Select Board, Advisory Committee, Conservation Commission, and Bylaw Review Committee. I have read and discussed the Town Manager Act and Hanover General Bylaws to understand why we have certain rules, regulations, and a complex system of government in place. I learned key administrative and organizational skills to help me in the workforce. I’ve even encountered challenging subjects involving the town’s budget with an override and levy limit. Since students are impacted by the decisions of the town government and will eventually have their own say, I wanted to share a quick rundown of some municipal operations.

The Special and Annual Town Meeting is the gathering of registered Hanover voters who weigh in on articles proposed to address different concerns. It is where people make decisions on spending taxes and other rules that guide town operations. The elected Town Moderator directs the meeting in a fair and orderly fashion, guiding the public comments and the voting procedure to make sure everything runs smoothly. Some items that people vote on are the budget, spending, bylaws, and zoning. This is a direct form of democracy in which the people use their legislative power to vote for an article (aye) or against an article (nay). The Annual Town Meeting occurs on a yearly schedule, while a Special Town Meeting is called as needed to address urgent issues that cannot wait. This year’s Special and Annual Town Meeting is set for Monday, May 4, beginning at 7 pm in the Hanover High School auditorium.

The Advisory Committee is a nine-member group appointed by the Town Moderator that represents the legislative body of the town and guides voters on their decisions on proposed articles. Many articles are submitted by town officials or departments, but constituents can also submit articles in the form of a petition. With enough signatures — 10 for the Annual Town Meeting and 100 for the Special Town Meeting — the article can be presented to the Town Meeting. This year, there is a petition for an article led by Lexie Schiller, a junior at Hanover High School, that would create a new section in our bylaws to reduce the use of single-use plastic bags.

The Town Manager is the chief executive officer of the town and is appointed by the Select Board. This position is usually held by someone with experience in business administration or public management. They are in charge of all non-elected department heads, including the appointment of the Police and Fire Chiefs. They also ensure that all the policies adopted by the Select Board are carried out effectively. The Town Manager directs the town’s administrative functions, including preparing the annual town budget alongside the Budget Director to ensure the town is financially stable. If the Select Board sets a vision or policy for the town, the Town Manager is the one who executes it.

The Select Board, made up of five at-large members, is the elected leadership of the executive branch of the Hanover government. They establish the overall policy and priorities of the town and have the ability to hire and remove, if necessary, the Town Manager. The Select Board reviews and approves budgets before they go to Town Meeting to be voted upon. They grant different business licenses and permits for possessions such as alcohol. The Select Board acts as a bridge between the residents and town officials. They create the Annual and Special Town Meeting warrants for the legislative branch to consider. They are elected for a three-year term and run during the Annual Town Election in May. The Select Board, like some other committees, has a Chair and a Vice Chair. The Chair runs the meetings and is the spokesperson of the Select Board. The Chair also guides the group’s decisions on issues and is in direct contact with the Town Manager. Meanwhile, the Vice Chair supports the Chair and runs the meetings when the Chair is absent.

After reading all of this information, you may wonder, how does this impact me? Well, many high school students are at voting age or close to it, and therefore have a say in Town Meeting or at the polls. The decisions made in municipal government can impact students, as has been felt in recent budget votes and overrides. Snow days are determined by the Department of Public Works in cooperation with the Superintendent of Schools and the Town Manager. Voters can impact decisions on new parks, police cruisers, sidewalks, and town bylaws. If you want to engage in the decisions made in this town, I encourage you to fulfill your civic duty by listening to what is going on and voting when you’re eligible. Volunteering is welcome at Town Hall or other public facilities if you want to get more involved. If you have an issue with something, do not be afraid to reach out. Everyone has a voice in this town, so let it be heard.

By Jolie Coviello, ’27

Staff Writer

Oftentimes, having a deeper understanding of a nation’s history allows us to understand why it takes certain actions in the present. Venezuela is one nation in particular with a long and tumultuous history, which must be taken into account to understand the current political situation. 

It’s easy to see why many Venezuelans anticipate reform with the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by the US military, which was ordered by President Trump in early January. In fact, a 2017 poll by Datanálisis, a respected Venezuelan research firm, showed that 80 percent of Venezuelans desired Maduro’s removal. President Maduro has caused great harm to his nation’s economy, government, and people since taking office in 2013. Due to the severe economic debilitation, persistent social unrest, and blatant election fraud under Maduro’s administration, conditions nationwide have worsened. Venezuela is experiencing one of the largest displacement crises in the world as millions try to escape terrible living conditions. Over 80 percent of Venezuelans live in poverty under a socialist government. The murder rate of natives has increased to 91 percent, surpassing that of the most dangerous cities in the world. According to research by the United Nations Refugee Agency, over 23 percent of the population has fled the country since Maduro was elected into office. 

Maduro’s predecessor, Hugo Chávez, built an economy dependent on oil exports. During his presidency, oil generated significant income for Venezuela, making up approximately 95 percent of export earnings at its height. This boost in national income provided an incentive for the government to spend over $230 billion on social programs and nationalization. Although Chávez succeeded in reducing poverty by 26 percent with social welfare programs–federal food subsidies and improvements in education and health care, these reforms relied on a thriving economy. When Maduro came into power, he failed to adjust to a dynamic market, and a significant decrease in oil prices proved to be devastating for the economy. Venezuela fell into a massive spending deficit―around 17 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This number only increased over the course of Maduro’s presidency.

Now, Venezuela has the highest rate of inflation worldwide—almost 946 percent at its peak, making food and medicine virtually inaccessible. After oil prices fell, its GDP declined a whopping 35 percent — more than that of the United States during the Great Depression. And instead of working to resolve the economic crisis, Maduro gave government officials, military elites, and close business associates access to an exclusive exchange rate, which they could profit from in the black market. As the gap between the black market exchange rate and hyperinflation rates grew, Maduro’s elite allies continued to profit from economic debilitation, often working with the Central Bank–Venezuela’s national bank–to artificially maintain low exchange rates. 

Along with crippling the economy, Maduro has been accused of electoral fraud by multiple democratic countries and organizations, turning out elections that were statistically improbable and did not qualify as democratic. For fear that he was losing power from the representative branch of government—the National Constituent Assembly, he replaced the body altogether in 2020. This led to massive protests nationwide. Instead of resolving this issue, Maduro utilized the military and law enforcement to attack, oppress, and detain peaceful protestors. Many propaganda outlets blamed the violence on the opposition, despite Maduro having escalating the situation. 

Free speech is not a constitutional right in Venezuela. In fact, the Human Rights Watch covered the brutality, torture, and political persecution of protestors nationwide. They detailed how armed security forces and pro-government groups attacked protestors using extreme force, causing dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries. Thousands of civilians were detained and prosecuted in military courts without trial. The government also sent intelligence agents into homes or onto the streets to detain people without reason and at random. 

On top of having no due process, those in custody have been subjected to various forms of torture and abuse. In a joint report by the Human Rights Watch and the Penal Forum, there have been at least 88 cases involving at least 314 people whose human rights were infringed upon. Despite obvious evidence of human rights violations, no indication had been made of any legal consequences for the aggressors’ actions, which the Human Rights Watch called a humanitarian crisis. Therefore, high-level officials not only bear responsibility for these actions but blatantly permit them. The majority of Venezuelans—90 percent—desire government reform. Despite their persistent protests since Maduro’s election, there has been little to no reform in government.

Since the capture of President Maduro, Delcy Rodríguez — the Vice President of Venezuela — has taken charge of Venezuelan goods and government as the acting president of the regime. Rodríguez has publicly reinforced the legitimacy of the regime while President Maduro remains in US custody. It seems as though Rodríguez does not hold favor with the majority of Venezuelans, who are impoverished and increasingly restless.

The leader of the opposition, María Corina Machado, has attempted to run for President in the past but was barred by the Venezuelan government. Despite the government corruption, Machado believes that Venezeula can return to a fair democracy, starting with the removal of Maduro. On the other hand, the severe economic debilitation, persistent social unrest, and blatant election fraud in Venezuela are a significant precedent that prevents a full transition to a democratic government. After all, mass protests have been omnipresent for a decade, and they’ve caused little change in government. But Machado stated that the Venezuelan people have already unified over political oppression, so they will succeed in reforming the government together, as 90 percent of Venezuelans share the desire to reform the corrupt administration. In her opinion, the absence of religious, social, and racial tensions within the populace is a promising sign of national unity, yet the obvious political tension between the administration and its people remains prevalent. The future remains uncertain in the midst of a dynamic political environment.

Currently, the Trump administration is attempting to reinstate diplomatic relations with Venezuela, despite having just arrested its leader. President Trump has made some progress, encouraging a new amnesty bill in Venezeula that could lead to the release of dissenters, including politicians, activists, lawyers and many others. This would be a public acknowledgement that the Venezeulan government has held hundreds of people in prison for political motivations, marking the beginning of much-needed reform in modern Venezuela.

Works Cited

“2024 Venezuelan Presidential Election.” Wikipedia, 8 Feb. 2024, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2024_Venezuelan_presidential_election.

“Eight Million and More Vote in Venezuela Election.” Thevincentian.com, 2017, thevincentian.com/eight-million-and-more-vote-in-venezuela-election-p13696-149.htm. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026.

Gupta, Girish. “Exclusive – Venezuelan Vote Data Casts Doubt on Turnout at Sunday Poll.” Reuters, 2 Aug. 2017, http://www.reuters.com/article/world/exclusive-venezuelan-vote-data-casts-doubt-on-turnout-at-sunday-poll-idUSKBN1AI0AM/. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026.

Human Rights Watch. “Crackdown on Dissent | Brutality, Torture, and Political Persecution in Venezuela.” Human Rights Watch, 15 Jan. 2019, http://www.hrw.org/report/2017/11/29/crackdown-dissent/brutality-torture-and-political-persecution-venezuela.

KOMO News. “FULL REMARKS: Venezuelan Leader Maria Machado Says Venezuela Will Be Free with the Help of the US.” YouTube, 17 Jan. 2026, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yoOMpeEaN8E&list=RDNSHc8K866Vw34&index=5. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.

News, PBS. “Venezuela Approves Amnesty Bill, Paving Way for Release of Hundreds of Political Detainees.” PBS News, 20 Feb. 2026, http://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/venezuela-approves-amnesty-bill-paving-way-for-release-of-hundreds-of-political-detainees.

News, PBS. “U.S. And Venezuela Agree to Reestablish Diplomatic Ties in Major Shift after Maduro’s Ouster.” PBS News, 6 Mar. 2026, http://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/u-s-and-venezuela-agree-to-reestablish-diplomatic-ties-in-major-shift-after-maduros-ouster.

Puyosa, Iria. “Venezuelan Government Strategies for Information War on Twitter.” SSRN Electronic Journal, 2018, https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3459724. Accessed 24 Oct. 2019.

Scripps News. “Trump Meets with Venezuelan Opposition Leader as Senate Backs Military Authority.” YouTube, 15 Jan. 2026, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hc8K866Vw34&list=RDNSHc8K866Vw34. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.

Seelke, Clare Ribando. “Venezuela: Political Crisis and U.S. Policy.” Congress.gov, 2025, http://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IF10230.

UNHCR. “Venezuela Crisis | USA for UNHCR.” Unrefugees.org, 2024, http://www.unrefugees.org/emergencies/venezuela/.

“US Dollar to Venezuelan Bolívar Exchange Rate History | Currency Converter | Wise.” Wise, 2020, wise.com/us/currency-converter/usd-to-ves-rate/history.

Vox. “The Collapse of Venezuela, Explained.” YouTube, YouTube Video, 25 Aug. 2017, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S1gUR8wM5vA.

Wikipedia Contributors. “National Electoral Council (Venezuela).” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 10 Jan. 2025, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Electoral_Council_(Venezuela).

Worldometer. “Venezuela Population (2026) – Worldometers.” Worldometers.info, 2019, http://www.worldometers.info/world-population/venezuela-population/.

“Xe Currency & Money Transfers.” Xe.com, 2025, http://www.xe.com/en-us/currencyconverter/convert/?Amount=1&From=USD&To=VEF.

By Charlize Coviello, ’29

Staff Writer

The story of America cannot be told without the voices, struggles, and achievements of Black Americans. The idea of Black History Month was suggested by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926. As the son of former slaves, Woodson aimed to challenge the erasure of Black history in education by establishing a dedicated period for celebrating Black contributions to the American story. As a Harvard-trained historian, he launched this initiative under his organization, The Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. Originally, the commemorative week was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln, Feb. 12, and Frederick Douglass, Feb. 14. The celebration was expanded to the entire month of February in 1976, during the U.S. bicentennial year. That year, President Gerald Ford urged Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans.”

As the president who signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, Lincoln’s impact on the history of Black freedom cannot be understated. In addition to “freeing slaves,” Lincoln also authorized the enlistment of approximately 190,000 African-American men into the Union Army. Though even today the battle against prejudice and racism still rages, and segregation along with Jim Crow laws persisted nearly a century after emancipation, Lincoln’s actions represented a great step toward equality. 

Frederick Douglass was born Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey in February, 1818, in Talbot County, Maryland, to an enslaved mother and an unknown white father. Separated from his mother as an infant and raised by his grandmother, he was sold to the Auld family in Baltimore at age 8. Despite laws against it, Sophia Auld taught him the alphabet. He subsequently taught himself to read and write, viewing literacy as a path to freedom. As a teenager, he was sold to notorious slave breaker Edward Covey, where he suffered intense physical abuse before fighting back. In 1838 he disguised himself as a sailor to escape, later settling in New Bedford, Massachusetts with his new wife. Douglass became the most important leader of the movement for African American Civil Rights in the 19th century, gaining fame for his incisive anti-slavery writings and speeches. He published famous anti-slavery newspapers like the “North Star,” advising presidents and championing women’s suffrage and civil rights. His brilliant speeches and writings provided a powerful counter-narrative to pro-slavery arguments, making him an essential figure of history. During the Civil War he advised President Lincoln on emancipation and the treatment of Black soldiers. He fought for voting rights for African Americans and women, holding positions including US Marshal for the District of Columbia and Minister Resident to Haiti. He died in 1895 in Washington D.C., remaining an active, influential advocate for human rights until his final day. 

Of the many figures we celebrate in Black History Month, some of the most familiar include Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr., and Rosa Parks. They all significantly contributed to American as well as Black history.

Harriet Tubman was a civil rights pioneer, abolitionist, and courageous American humanitarian. Born into slavery in Dorchester County, Maryland, around March 1822, she was the fifth of nine children and was hired out at age six, often enduring physical abuse and neglect. At age 12, an overseer threw a heavy iron weight that struck her head, causing severe seizures, headaches, and narcolepsy that lasted her entire life. In 1849, facing the threat of being sold, she fled to Philadelphia using the Underground Railroad. Over the next decade, she made approximately 13 trips back to Maryland, liberating family members and friends. She guided approximately 70 enslaved people to freedom. She traveled in disguise, moved by night, and relied on a network of safe houses. She later served in the Civil War as a nurse and scout for the Union army, and was the first woman to lead an armed assault during the Combahee River Raid, freeing over 700 people. After the war, she settled in Auburn, New York, supported women’s suffrage alongside Susan B. Anthony, and helped care for the elderly. In 1913, she passed away from pneumonia and was buried with military honors.

Martin Luther King Jr. was born in Atlanta, Georgia on Jan. 15, 1929. His father was an early civil rights leader who protested voting discrimination. As a gifted student he entered Morehouse College at age 15, later earning a sociology degree, a Bachelor of Divinity from Crozer Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in Systematic Theology from Boston University. Dr. King was a leader of the Civil Rights Movement. He’s famously known for his “I Have a Dream” speech at the March on Washington, helping pass landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. He helped lead the Montgomery bus boycott, which led the Supreme Court to rule segregated public buses unconstitutional, and he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 for his commitment to achieving racial equality and justice through nonviolent means. Dr. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968 in Memphis, Tennessee by James Earl Ray.

Rosa Parks, born Rosa Louise McCauley on February 4, 1913, was an activist known as the mother of the civil rights movement. She grew up experiencing strict Jim Crow segregation and intense racism, witnessing activities of the Klu Klux Klan as well as lynchings. She attended the private Industrial School for Girls and later the Alabama State Teachers College for Negroes. On December 1, 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama, she famously refused to give up her bus seat to a white passenger, violating segregation laws. Her arrest sparked the 381 day Montgomery Bus Boycott, a pivotal, successful protest that helped end public transportation segregation. As a result of the boycott, the Supreme Court ruled that segregated buses were unconstitutional, marking a major victory for the civil rights movement. Before her 1955 arrest, she was an active member of the NAACP, serving as the secretary of the Montgomery Branch from 1943 to 1956. She traveled to Alabama to investigate documented cases of sexual assault and racial violence against Black individuals. When Parks was arrested for disorderly conduct after refusing to move to the back of the bus, she later stated she was not tired physically but rather “tired of giving in” to segregation. Due to death threats and difficulty finding work in Alabama, she moved with her husband to Detroit, Michigan, in 1957, where she continued fighting racism in the North. She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1996 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 1999. Parks passed away on October 24, 2005 in Detroit. 

Black History Month is not just about remembering the past — it is about understanding how that past shapes our present and inspires our future. By studying and celebrating these historical figures, we can learn how to face problems of injustice and intolerance that still trouble society today.