Her work helps to share our traditions with another generation!
In the world of cotillions and debutante presentations, Dr. Nikita Harris stands as a dedicated guardian of Black cultural traditions. She is an associate professor of organizational communication and leadership at the University of Alabama, Reese Phifer Fellow, and founder of the National Black Debutante Project (NBDP). In an exclusive interview with Because of Them We Can, Dr. Harris shares insights into the rich history and significance of Black debutante culture in the United States, along with tips for families who want to participate in the tradition.
Credit: LinkedIn
Well-Developed Roots
The roots of Black debutante culture trace back to the 18th century when debutante balls emerged in Europe as a traditional means for young women from high society to find suitable husbands. However, according to The New York Times, Black Americans began crafting their unique version of these elaborate social events as early as 1895. In defiance of mainstream debutante traditions’ exclusivity and often discriminatory practices, Black debutantes pioneered a movement that celebrated their heritage, cultural identity, and individual accomplishments. These events transformed into more than mere introductions to society; they became platforms for Black excellence, fostering a sense of pride, community, and empowerment among generations of young Black women.
Dr. Harris passionately articulates the significance of upholding these cultural practices. “Black American traditions, especially those rooted in elegance and communal celebration, are invaluable to our identity and history,” she asserts. Dr. Harris believes that traditions like debutante presentations and cotillions are not merely relics of the past; they are living narratives connecting generations and anchoring communities in shared experiences.
When discussing the motivations behind her work, Dr. Harris emphasizes the need for representation and inclusivity within these cultural spaces. “The Black debutante experience is quite broad and diverse,” she explains. “There are many stories. I am hoping the work that I am doing through the NBDP will reflect the rich and diverse history of the Black debutante experience over the last 100 years.” Through her tireless efforts, Dr. Harris aims to counteract stereotypical depictions that often exclude certain narratives, ensuring that every facet of the Black debutante journey finds its place in the records of American history.
Historical Gems Within the Tradition
Reflecting on lesser-known historical aspects, Dr. Harris reflected on debutante bows and dances. Describing the conservative curtsy and the dramatic Texas dip, she notes the months of practice required for debutantes to perfect these moves while wearing heels. “The traditional dances are a main attraction to the formal presentations. It is a beautiful sight to see young women waltz and foxtrot with their escorts. In recent years, you will see more modern and contemporary dances being incorporated into the presentation with traditional dances. They are a lot of fun to watch and enjoy,” she shares.
Navigating the Path to Debutante Participation
Addressing the first question on parents’ minds—how to get their children involved—Dr. Harris outlines three common routes. She advises parents to collaborate with school personnel, ensuring program information reaches students through teachers, principals, and counselors. Dr. Harris stresses the importance of early communication to facilitate the application process.
She adds, “Parents and interested youth should pay close attention to their local newspapers, community papers, and African American newspapers that serve their local city and communities.” Dr. Harris encourages families to leverage community resources, including radio stations and social media, for valuable information on upcoming events and debutante programs.
Bringing awareness to the power of personal networks, Dr. Harris urges parents to inform everyone in their circle about their child’s interests. “Your network could be an avenue for you to learn requirements, impact, and commitment involved,” she notes. Establishing relationships with other parents who have been through the process can provide invaluable insights.
Moving on to the ideal time for parents to start looking into debutante programs, Dr. Harris advises early engagement. “I encourage parents to get their children involved in community experiences outside of traditional school programs, starting in elementary and junior high school.” She highlights the accessibility of leadership development programs in organizations like the Girls and Boys Scouts of America, offering low-cost opportunities for children to participate. Dr. Harris stresses the importance of involvement in community experiences to cultivate socially and civically engaged young women—qualities highly valued in cotillion and debutante social programs.
Only for a Certain “Kind of People”
Addressing the accessibility of the debutante process for the average Black family, Dr. Harris acknowledges that opportunities vary based on location. Larger cities and communities typically offer more chances for participation, but she dispels the misconception that all debutante programs are exclusive.
“There are various costs involved in a cotillion process, which will automatically exclude some young women (and men),” Dr. Harris notes. However, she highlights the significance of sponsorship initiatives by organizations or groups, ensuring economic disadvantages don’t hinder participation.
For those in smaller cities, Dr. Harris shares that the NBDP is actively involved in mentoring individuals or groups interested in establishing debutante programs in their communities.
Discussing pop culture representations, Dr. Harris acknowledges stereotypical images perpetuated by mainstream media. “You will find very stereotypical images of debutante balls and who are allowed to participate in them. It is the same campy singular story and experience that you will find across mainstream media through television, film, and entertainment. These types of shows often insinuate that the cotillion or debutant experience is ‘only’ for women who come from wealthy Black families, which is not true for most,” says Harris. “These types of stereotypical images are often communicated through mass-mediated images that get told time after time to fit a particular storyline. We have
seen these images depicted in entertainment [in] Something New, Our Kind of People, Bridgerton, Queen Charlotte, Greenleaf…among others.”
Bridging Generational Gaps
It’s no secret that Gen Alpha digs deep into the “why” of our longstanding traditions. It can be a challenge to get them to buy into traditional practices. Addressing resistance from younger generations, Dr. Harris emphasizes that most African American cotillion and debutante social programs are Black-centered. She encourages young people to seek out older debutantes, educating themselves on the positive impact of the debutante experience. Dr. Harris highlights the unique, diverse, and purpose-driven nature of the Black debutante experience, providing participants with transferable skills that are often not taught in traditional settings.
Dr. Harris reiterates the rewarding opportunities offered by cotillion and debutante social programs. “Don’t let anyone or anything stop you from participating,” she urges. The experiences gained–from financial literacy to social graces–can truly change a young person’s life trajectory. Through her work with the National Black Debutante Project, she continues to champion inclusivity and diversity, ensuring that the Black debutante experience reflects the richness of its century-long history.
Cover photo:Meet Dr. Nikita Harris, the Woman Who Is Preserving the Rich History of Black Debutantes/ Debutantes, Los Angeles, September 1968/ Credit: The Harry Adams Collection