Although Black American history is American history, it historically has not been widely taught, acknowledged or embraced. Despite the disregard, Black communities organized events and tributes to honor Black achievements and history following the abolishment of slavery.
In 1915, after witnessing thousands of people wait in line to view exhibitions commemorating emancipation, historian Carter G. Woodson was inspired to further promote the celebration. The Harvard-educated scholar designated February as the month for an annual observance because it included the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass — two highly esteemed figures among Black Americans.
Woodson's dedication paid off. His establishment of "Negro History Week" in 1926 has evolved to become Black History Month and continues to be celebrated. Homages for Black History Month through performances, lectures, displays and other activities have led to wider acceptance and acknowledgment of the accomplishments, identities and heritage of Black Americans.
Delaware Online/The News Journal is compiling a list of events and activities scheduled throughout the month to celebrate Black History Month. If you would like your event to be featured here, please email us.
Mark your calendar and get ready to celebrate!
Black History Month events at the University of Delaware
From a unity basketball game to a cooking class to a lecture by Nikole Hannah-Jones, the creator of The 1619 Project, the University of Delaware is offering a diverse range of events to celebrate the remarkable achievements and ongoing struggles of the Black community all February. The list of activities also includes plays, book chats, volunteer opportunities, and more, all in recognition of the vital impact and activism of Black Americans. Here are just a few:
- Resident Ensemble Players presents “Pass Over” a theatrical performance by Antoinette Nwandu. Running Feb. 8 to 18.
- Black Hair + Storytelling as a Form of Social Activism. Monday, Feb. 19, 6 to 8 p.m. Food, free hair products and discussion.
- Art exhibits focusing on Black history or Black historical figures, including one spotlighting theartistry of the late UD ProfessorJames E. Newton.
- Hot Takes Over Hot Plates: Black Men in Living Color: The Beauty of Black Masculinity. A conversation around Black men and masculinity, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 6 to 8 p.m.
Locations, dates and times vary depending on the event. Please check University of Delaware's website for all events and full details.
The YMCA of Delaware
Saturday, Feb. 17, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Middletown Family YMCA, Middletown
Saturday, Feb. 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m., Bear-Glasgow Family YMCA, Newark
The YMCA will recognize “Delaware’s Trailblazers" with a series of events in February. From book fairs and live performances to a Black-owned business expo, there will be something for everyone. For details on when an event or activity will take place, contact the YMCA of Delaware.
Creating a Community, Leaving a Legacy
Saturday, Feb. 10, 11 a.m. to 3p.m.,Route 9 Library & Innovation Center, 3022 New Castle Ave., New Castle
Live performances, food and activities for the whole family.
Wilmington Ballet Presents 'Deep Roots' - A Celebration of African-American Arts and Culture
An engrossing evening featuring live music, spoken word and a wine tasting. Enjoy dance showcase headlined by Celebration ofBlack Joy, performances by artists from Pieces of a Dream Dance Theater and the premier of new work by Wilmington Ballet's Artistic & Executive Director Benjamin Sterling Cannon.
Sunday, Feb. 11, 3 p.m., The Milton Theatre, 110 Union St., Milton
Purchase tickets online at MiltonTheatre.com. For information or assistance, visit Facebook @miltontheatreshows, Instagram @miltontheatre, email boxoffice@miltontheatre.com or call 302-684-3038.
Henrietta Johnson Medical Center Black History Month Celebration
Saturday, Feb. 24, 10 a.m., Route 9 Library & Innovation Center, 3022 New Castle Ave., New Castle
Come for the free lunch and stay for the games, vendors and speakers!
- Free lunch for the first 50 guests
- Raffles
- Information, vendors and speakers
The Raising Kings BHIM Summit
Thursday, Feb. 29, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Police Athletic League, 3707 North Market St., Wilmington
One Village Alliance, in collaboration with the Red Clay Consolidated School District, Delaware Department of Public Health and Jobs for Delaware Graduates, is holding its annual Raising Kings mentorship conference in conjunction with Black History Month. This year, the conference will honor history makers from the local community with a theme called "Black History In the Making." The event will include group discussions, presentations and conversations led by entrepreneurs, experts, and leaders to inspire and motivate school-age boys to become outstanding individuals in their generation.
Free admission at the Biggs Museum of American Art
Sundays in February, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Biggs Museum of American Art, 406 Federal St., Dover
In honor of Black History Month, the Biggs Museum of American Art is offering free admission every Sunday in February from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Inspired by the 1971 film, 'The Five' by Delawarean Dom Albi, visitors can explore an exhibition featuring the works of five notable Black artists. Join a guided tour from 2 to 2:30 p.m. led by members of The Links, Incorporated to gain insight into the artists, their techniques and the cultural significance of each piece.
This event is part of Dover's Citywide Black History Celebration. To discover more events taking place in the capital city, visit delmarvaevents.net.
A Race Against Race Quilt Series
Through Feb. 25, times vary, St. John’s Episcopal Church, Havre de Grace, Maryland
Visitors are invited to attend this free exhibit and three-part conversation series to explore and discuss the use of quilting as a form of expression against police killings of Black women and men.
