On Wednesday, March 11, El Camino High School’s Royale Step Program presented to CHS students what they do, why they do it, and how important step has been for generations. 

The act of stepping is a high-energy foot-and-body movement dating back to the 1500s and earlier in Africa. Now, step teams perform the same dances that Black sororities and fraternities did generations ago. Furthermore, the step Program was a significant event that celebrated black culture, history, and progress. 

The Black Student Union organized this event, culminating in an assembly for all CHS students in the gym during fourth period. Calabasas High School BSU President Lael McClay spoke about how meaningful this event was to her, the BSU, and the step performers. 

“It meant a lot to me, since we have been trying to get something like this for BSU all year. The support of the students and staff made this event so special and meaningful to us,” McClay said.

Evan Coelman, the El Camino Real’s Step founder and coach, shared stories on the historical significance of this step dance, which has been part of African American culture for centuries. The step team performed dances by Alpha Kappa Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Delta Sigma Theta, and others from the Divine Nine. 

CHS Senior Sophie Kirkeli admired the step team’s performance and the event organization.

“This was such an amazing performance. I think the step team did such a great job, and I think the assembly was really well organized,” said Kirkeli. 

Ultimately, this performance was enjoyed by students, faculty members, and staff alike. The BSU looks forward to future events like this one and, hopefully, the return of the Step team in future years.