Black History Month, also known as African-American History Month, is annually observed during the month of February. In 1915, American historian and educator Carter Godwin Woodson set the foundation for what we now observe as Black History Month. Carter saw the lack of acknowledgment, representation, and recognition of Black Americans’ accomplishments, and wanted a change.
In 1926, Woodson launched a “Negro History Week” to bring attention to his mission and help school systems focus on incorporating African American History into their curriculum. Many years later in 1976, President Gerald Ford announced that Black History Month would be a nationally observed holiday. As we take time this month to recognize all the accomplishments both past and present of Black Americans, let us also remember that Black History is American History.
1. BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATION: FIRST THURSDAY NIGHT
Feb. 1, 2024, 4-8 p.m., The Children’s Museum
Celebrate Black heritage and achievements in history, science, art, and music through storytelling, special activities, and performances.
2. First Friday Art Show – Black History Month: Then & Now
Feb. 2, 2024, 6-9 p.m., Rapp Family Gallery, Indiana Landmarks Center
Indiana Landmarks hosts “Black History Month: Then & Now,” a free art exhibit highlighting Indiana Black artists and their expressions of Black heritage. Curated by Clayton Hamilton of Indianapolis’s InSight Art, the group show features artists Kenneth Cousin, Harvey William Francis III, and Greg Moore, with additional work exhibited by Tasha Beckwith and Chrystopher Burns.
3. ART & SOUL, A Festival of Black Art & Music
Feb. 2-23, various locations
Presented by the Indy Arts Council, Art & Soul has helped to advance the careers of black artists in Indianapolis for 25 years. On February 2, there’s a Festival Kickoff at Gallery 924 & The Cabaret; on February 7, there’s a featured artist showcase at the Jazz Kitchen; and on February 23, there’s a celebration at the Indianapolis Artsgarden.
4. LEON JETT MEMORIAL LECTURE ABOUT THE ICONIC MADAM C.J. WALKER WITH PORTIA SHOLAR JACKSON
Feb. 3, 1-2 p.m., Eiteljorg Museum
Join storyteller Portia Sholar Jackson, “Momma Portia,” for an engaging lecture about iconic African American entrepreneur and businesswoman Madam C.J. Walker, followed by a Q&A session. Portia, a very talented storyteller, believes in the power of oral traditions. She uses her talents to present stories to audiences of all ages throughout the country and emphasizes topics such as cultural awareness, American History, self-esteem building, and decision-making skills.
5. HISTORY ON STAGE: A PRESENTATION FROM MADAM CJ WALKER & IDA B. WELLS
Feb. 3, 2-3 p.m., Indianapolis Public Library West Perry Branch
Experience a live performance from two historic ladies: Madam CJ Walker & a Sales Associate, Madam CJ Walker & Ida B. Wells, or Ida B. Wells & Harriet Tubman. After a 45-minute presentation, they will answer your questions for 15 minutes. The lovely women of Soulful Journeys of Women present these historic figures.
6. AFRICAN AMERICAN STORIES IN ART
Feb. 10, 17, and 24, 2-3 p.m., Eiteljorg Museum
A special public tour highlighting works by African American artists featured in the Eiteljorg’s collection.
7. MARTIN UNIVERSITY/IBDFF MINI FILM FESTIVAL CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Feb. 23-24, Hardin Gathertorium, Martin University
The Martin University/ IBDFF Mini Film Festival is a must-attend for film enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Get ready for an evening filled with powerful stories, captivating cinematography, and thought-provoking discussions.
Images courtesy of: The Children’s Museum, Indiana Landmarks Center, Indy Arts Council, Eiteljorg Museum, Indianapolis Public Library, and Martin University.
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