Black History Month is an annual observance highlighting African Americans' accomplishments and rich heritage.
Also known as African American History Month, it serves as a platform to educate, reflect upon, and acknowledge Black Americans' powerful legacy and diverse experiences. Since 1976, Black History Month has been celebrated annually in the United States during February. This month was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of two prominent figures in African American history, Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Read on to learn more about how you can participate in this important national observance.
Celebrating Black History Month
Here are some general ideas for how you can get involved in Black History Month 2024:
- Community Events: Participate in community events such as parades, cultural festivals, and heritage celebrations.
- ucational Programs: Attend educational programs, lectures, and workshops that explore the history and achievements of African Americans.
- Art and Culture: Explore African American art, literature, music, and cinema through exhibitions, performances, and readings.
- Support Black-Owned Businesses: Show support for Black entrepreneurs and businesses by shopping and dining locally and promoting Black-owned enterprises.
- Volunteer: Offer your time and talents to organizations that promote racial equality and social justice.
Throughout Delaware, Black History Month Celebrations Abound
Below are some exciting and meaningful opportunities for participation in Delaware:
1. Join in Dover’s eighth annual Citywide Black History Celebration.
Enjoy a full slate of free special events this month, with familiar favorites and new programs featuring local culture, art, music, and theater. A full schedule of events is available at Visit https://delmarvaevents.net/. Some highlights include:
- “Hidden Lives: Slavery, Freedom, and the Green” Walking Tours at First State Heritage Park: People of color have been an integral part of the Dover community across more than 300 years of history. Although their lives were tightly woven into the fabric of Dover's every day and their contributions meaningfully shaped the city, their experiences have rarely been included in its story. This February, the community is invited to hear deeply human stories of love and loss, hard work, painful setbacks, and triumphs against adversity. Meet a historic interpreter at the John Bell House for this free 45-minute walking tour, conducted every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in February, on the hour from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- The Dover Eight: On Tuesday, February 27th at 6 p.m. join local historian Syl Woolford at the Dover Library for a fascinating presentation on "The Dover Eight”. Eight slaves, traveling to freedom with Harriet Tubman, were given instructions on how to find station master Thomas Orwell, who turned them into the sheriff in Dover for the $3,000 reward offered by slaveholders for their return. Learn the story of these eight who not only escaped slavery but also see the Dover jail they were led to. Learn more at https://delawarelibraries.libcal.com/event/11706591.
- “Leaps & Bounds: Contemporary Black Artists", a lecture at the Biggs Museum: On Thursday, February 29th from 6 - 7 p.m., The Biggs will host a compelling lecture by Delaware State University’s own Professor of Art, Lori Crawford. The lecture promises to showcase the remarkable endeavors of Black artists across the country and in Delaware in recent years. Visit https://www.biggsmuseum.org/ for details.
2. Have fun at the Walnut Street YMCA’s kick-off event in Wilmington.
On Saturday, February 3rd, the 2024 Black History Month kick-off celebration will explore the deep impact of Delaware African trailblazers through performances, demonstrations, history displays, and more. This free event will also feature information tables and merchant vendors. Girl Scouts of all levels will earn a Black History Month fun patch (while supplies last). Learn more at https://www.newcastlede.gov/930/Celebrate-Black-History-Month
3. Attend “Still I Rise” with famed dancer Misty Copeland at the Wilmington Library.
Acclaimed dancer Misty Copeland gained national attention in 2015 when she made history as the first Black principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre. A year before securing that accolade, President Obama appointed Copeland to the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. Misty Copeland will appear at the Wilmington Library on Tuesday, February 13th at 6 p.m. Come hear her inspiring story. No registration or tickets are required. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. For more details, please visithttps://delawarelibraries.libcal.com/event/11771325
4. Enjoy music and readings at the beach.
On Sunday, February 24th at 2 p.m., the Southern Delaware Chorale will present a Black History Month recital entitled, “A Choral Tapestry” at the Epworth United Methodist Church in Rehoboth Beach. The experience will feature multi-genre choral music and readings by Black composers. Get the details by visiting www.southerndelawarechorale.org
Black History Month is the perfect time to honor life-changing African American achievements and create a promising future for everyone. If you need additional resources or if you want to learn more about the services we provide, please contact our caring team anytime.
About Evan W. Smith Funeral Services: Since 2009, residents of Wilmington, Dover, and the surrounding Delaware community have relied on the caring staff at Evan W. Smith Funeral Services to help them through their darkest hours. Family-owned and operated, the company offers an array of elite funeral care services, including traditional funerals, cremations, memorials, pre-planning, grief counseling, and more. With decades of experience in caring for families from all cultural backgrounds and diverse walks of life, Evan W. Smith Funeral Services is committed to creating memorable, uplifting experiences that always exceed expectations. For more information, please visit www.ewsmithfs.com
Leave a Reply 0 comments