Flash flooding, torrential rain, and a cyclone in Honolulu, Hawaii interrupted the solemn commemoration of the Pearl Harbor bombing’s 80th anniversary.

The Morgan State University Singers and Morgan State University President David Wilson attended the commemoration and experienced the extreme weather. 

In a letter addressed to the Morgan community, Wilson assured students, family and faculty that he and the choir were safe.

“In light of the torrential rains that are falling here in Honolulu (nonstop since Sunday) resulting in flash flooding, I have heard from some of you inquiring of our safety,” he said. “We are all safe!

Wilson said that despite the weather, the students were patient and chose to make the best of their trip. 

“They represented themselves and our National Treasure on this national stage uncommonly well. They were excited and energized, wearing their orange and blue very proudly,” he said.

“The students have been great sports about this and understand that they couldn’t take in Hawaii and the great biodiversity of this state in the way they anticipated.”

Eric Conway, director of the university choir, said that it was essential that the university and nation do not forget the African American soldiers that lost their lives in the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

Since the Morgan Singers were the only group to represent an HBCU and the only group of color, it was also crucial for them to represent HBCUs across the nation. 

The Morgan Singers, approximately 40 voices, began their performance with the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” then went on to perform pieces like “I Know I’ve Been Changed” and “Give Me Your Tired, Your Poor,” and finally ended with “The Battle Hymn of Republic.” 

“So many persons came up to me and said this is exactly what they needed,” said Conway. “Many persons heard many groups but knew our sounds would be different and nourishment for their souls.” 

Wilson said that the singers finished their performance to numerous standing ovations. 

The Morgan Singers’ performance also allowed Morgan to extend its brand. 

Darrell Davis, a sophomore member of the Morgan Singers, said, “When everyone sees our iconic orange and blue robes, we are constantly asked about Morgan as a whole, not just the choir. It’s amazing that people have a genuine interest in our university.” 

On Dec. 19, the choir will live stream their next performance, the annual Christmas concert, via YouTube.