Annual Black History Parade float to honor the late Betty Gyles

The Black Historical Committee of Aiken’s 22nd annual Black History Parade will take place from 2 p.m. to 5p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 19, starting at Citizen’s Park. The parade's theme is "Excellence in Community Service: Honoring Betty Gyles."

This theme aims to honor Betty Gyles, a deceased founding member of the BHCA. She worked for the City of Aiken Parks and Recreation for over 30 years. She was also involved with the Aiken Black History Parade Committee and the Martha Schofield High School Alumni Association. Gyles, who died in 2021, was known for servicing the community and for being a supervisor at the Smith-Hazel Recreation Center. Gyles loved working with both the youth and elderly of her Aiken, and dedicated much of her life to working in the community.

The public are able to submit a parade float entry, and the committee asks that those who participate honor this year’s theme.

Floats will line up at 1 p.m. that afternoon. A ceremony will be held after the parade at the Smith-Hazel Recreation Center to honor the memory of Betty Gyles and to announce three parade float winners, who will receive trophies.

You can contact the City of Aiken, South Carolina Parks, Recreation and Tourism for more information on submitting a float entry or with any other questions at (803) 642- 7631.