Stepping (African-American)

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Stepping or step-dancing is an African American tradition formalized in the traditionally black college fraternities and sororities, around the middle of the 20th century, though it has its roots in various group dancing and musical traditions reaching back through slave times and beyond. Choreographed dances performed at celebrations and ceremonies, stepping is seen as good for improving a group's morale, cohesion and pride, as well as communicating something of value to both the performers and the audience. Rhymes or chants are sometimes spoken over the dance as well.