When I was in elementary school, I was teased all the time about my dancing. My own family said I had no rhythm and danced like a bunny rabbit. My mom broke down and got me private dance lessons (that’s how I mastered the two step). But my real dance training came from watching Soul Train. I was heartbroken to hear that Don Cornelius had died. Soul Train meant a lot to me personally, but it also was a milestone for African Americans on television. Here was an outlet where we could see ourselves express ourselves through dance.

Here’s to you Don Cornelius, may you find the peace you were looking for.

Katina Stapleton