Raleigh, N.C. — Raleigh native Chuck Davis’ African American Dance Ensemble is known around the world for its powerful interpretations of the African culture and its underlying message.

He began his cultural journey in New York, after graduating high school in Raleigh.

“My first company was started in the Bronx, and from there, the government sent us all over the world as goodwill ambassadors,” Davis said. “As I ran around the world and realized that, if there’s going to be peace on this planet, dancers will have to be involved because we are the ones that are closest to the earth.”

Davis has been to Africa 54 times and has traveled to other countries as well, taking his message of peace, love and respect through dance and theater.

“Each person on this planet has a niche,” he said. “You’re given talent. You’re given, in a sense, marching orders.”

Davis says his niche is carrying on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream.

“Let us all come together as a people,” he said. “It doesn’t mean we have to be the same, but we can respect each other, and we can learn from each other, which is what it’s all about anyway.”

“That’s the beauty of dance,” Davis added. “That’s the beauty of life. That’s what the creator said for us to do, and I am happy doing my part.”

Editor's note: February is Black History Month, and, each week, our Living the Legacy series profiles an African American in our community who embodies the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.