Ancient rituals of the presentation of a young woman of noble birth in the fertile and blooming spring season, to society are as old as society itself. African American debutante organizations date back to at least the 1800’s. The post slave era saw affluent blacks connecting in private social clubs to sponsor their youth’s education and social goals, teach etiquette and maintain social bonds even in the most adverse conditions. The debutante ball and corresponding cotillion has become more popular in recent years as African Americans access institutions that foster cohesiveness and communal economics.

Etiquette schools and programs are making a comeback nationwide fueled by the resurgence of participation in these events. Debutante balls are very successful fundraisers and have generated big revenue. Many functions are private, invitation only, culturally cohesive and focused on specific funding and scholarship goals.

By C. Buford