Submitted photo
Chris Rock is shown in the documentary “Good Hair” to be shown Feb. 3 at YES Cinema.
Black History Month Columbus last year enjoyed a greater number of events perhaps than ever before, and a greater mix of ethnicities joining together for those happenings.
Here’s a brief overview of highlights from the new, recently unveiled calendar for this year, with full listings at blackhistorycolumbus.com:
- Feb. 1: Opening program at The Commons and Kwanzaa exhibit, 300 Washington St. Immerse yourself in the displays that honor the principle of Umoja – unity within the African American community. The exhibit brings to life the essence of Kwanzaa, showcasing the beauty of cultural traditions, values, and the collective spirit that binds people together.
- Feb. 2: Bright Star Children’s Theatre presents “Empowered, Brilliant & Brave: Great Women Of Black History:” 6 p.m. at The Commons, 300 Washington St. A children’s production highlighting heroes ranging from Rosa Parks and Sojourner Truth to Michelle Obama.
- Feb. 3: Connecting Storytelling to Creating Music (for area students in grades kindergarten through 12), 9 a.m., Second Baptist Church, 1325 10th St.
- Feb. 3: Taste of Soul cook-off, 2 to 5 p.m., Central Middle School, 725 Seventh St.
- Feb. 3: Movie Saturday at 9:30 a.m., YES Cinema, 328 Jackson St. The Chris Rock documentary “Good Hair,” explores the complexities of African American hair culture.
- Feb. 6-29: “And Still We Rise” and “Soul of Philanthropy” exhibits, Bartholomew County Historical Society, 524 Third. Featuring local Black history and more.
- Feb. 12: IU Columbus book discussion No. 1: “The Color of Law,” Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St.
- Feb 13: Locks and Luxe Black Hair Show, 6 p.m., Columbus Learning Center, 4555 Central Ave.
- Feb. 15: African American Foundation of Bartholomew County 10th Anniversary Celebration, music and more, 5:30 to 8 p.m., The Commons, 300 Washington St.
- Feb. 17: Movie Saturday: “Just Mercy,” 9:30 a.m. at YES Cinema, 328 Jackson St. Based on the true story of Bryan Stevenson, a lawyer who works to defend Walter McMillian, an African American man wrongly convicted of murder.
- Feb. 17: Nexus Park Family Fun Day, 2 to 5 p.m. Nexus Park, 2380 25th St. Featuring everything from games and sports to arts and crafts.
- Feb. 20: Diversity Career Fair & Black Business Showcase: promoting equal opportunities and celebrating Black entrepreneurship. An event to connect with employers committed to diversity, explore job opportunities, and support local Black-owned businesses.
- Feb. 22: Mental Health Panel Discussion, 6 to 7:30 p.m., Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 5th St.
- Musician Dan Kusaya, 6 to 7:30 p.m., Bartholomew County Public Library, hosted by the library.
