Black history is made daily but because of Carter G. Woodson — nicknamed the father of Black History Month — the celebration of Black culture is commemorated during the second month of the year.
What originated as a week-long celebration dubbed Negro History Week in 1926 evolved into a month-long recognition of culture, heritage and legacy in the Black community.
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According to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, an organization Woodson founded in 1915, February was designated because it coincides with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas, two prominent figures in shaping Black history.
Northeast Florida holds the footprints of those who have impacted and influenced all areas of culture from music to literature.
Every day, a new story emerges, leaving its mark on the timeline of Black History.
Here are a few events you can support to showcase blackness as the vibrant and resilient culture that it is.
Jacksonville
- Melanin Market & R.A.M. Black History Collab Celebration - Saturday, Feb. 8
- Curls & Convo - Saturday, Feb. 8
An open dialogue about self-confidence and loving the skin you’re in regardless of hair texture or skin completion. Join Mygani and Empowerment Resources Inc. in a conversation about natural hair in Black culture. The event is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the VyStar Tower on 76 South Laura Street. Get tickets here: www.eventbrite.com.
- Ritz Chamber Players | Lift Ev’ry Voice concert - Saturday, Feb. 8
- Florida Blue’s Black History Celebration - Saturday, Feb. 8
- Jazz in the Courtyard at James Weldon Johnson Park - Saturday, Feb. 8
- POWER: A Celebration of Arts, Culture & History - Saturday, Feb. 8
The MOSH is hosting the ultimate fusion of arts, culture and history to celebrate Black History Month. The event from 6 to 10 p.m. will include panel discussions, delicious cuisine and good music. The event is from 6 to 10 p.m.
- Community Music Festival - Saturday, Feb. 22
The city of Jacksonville, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund and Florida Blue are bringing the community together for a free event filled with live music and performance, food trucks and plenty of activities. The event is at the Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park at 120 Lee Street from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Melanin Market Black History Month Parade and Market - Saturday, Feb. 22
- Hair History Edition of Let’s Be Social - Sunday, Feb. 23
This networking event unites the beauty community to showcase their talents while learning from others.
The event will take place at the Majestic Event Complex at 5045 Soutel Drive, Suite 21 from 3 to 6 p.m.
For more information, visit Eventbrite for tickets.
- A Taste of Black History - Thursday, Feb. 27
904ward and Southern Grocers will host an event for the community to come out and learn about Black culture through traditions and a live culinary presentation.
The event will be held at the Jessie duPont Center at 40 East Adams Street, starting at 6 p.m.
Buy your tickets here.
Nassau County
- Black History Month Read-In - Thursday, Feb. 20
The Hilliard Branch Library will host an event where the community can explore the many literary advancements achieved by Black authors.
Attendees are also encouraged to bring a 1-2 minute reading piece from any Black authors or writers.
It will be held at the library on 15821 CR-108 at 6 p.m.
Visit nassaureads.com for more info.
St. Johns County
- Black History Month Art & Music Kickoff - Saturday, Feb. 1
Celebrate Black history through art and music at the Ovico Gallery at 2802 North 5th Street, suite 4 in St. Augustine. The event will include a showcase of talented artists and musicians.
It starts at 1 p.m. and ends at 4 p.m.
Click here for tickets.
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