Black History is more than just a month
It is a thought process that not only appreciates the past, but uses it to create a better present while hoping to open the possibility for an even better future.
Black History is happening daily—and it should be recognized as such.
It is important to note that Black achievements don’t solely reside within the confines of the most notable facts and figures. It’s stretched far beyond Harriet Tubman, Dr. Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, Robert Church, and other widely recognized names.
In Memphis, a city where Black people make up over 60% of its population, we are privileged to have so many examples of the strength, talent, and tenacity that’s been personified generation after generation.
So, how Can we make an effort to dive into our city's Black History, and to uplift Black storieS and people?
We can start here in the month of February. Let’s say that January was a free trial month, and we are going to begin our work here. This is our guide for Black History Month, and we hope it will serve as the start of the process to celebrating black history throughout the year.
Support Your Local Black Community
From kitchens to cultural institutions, creative industries, and more, Black folks have been thriving in our city for centuries—and we want to keep it that way. To help, we created a guide that’s a living record of local, black-owned businesses that you can refer to when you want to, as Wesley Snipes once said, “bet on Black.”
Reflect on Black Memphis with music
“As we walk into Black History Month, we have an opportunity to listen intently. “All These Dreams: Black Memphis in Song” Part II includes lifelong and short-term African-American neighbors whose creativity is intrinsically linked to their time in our city.
“Enjoy each rhythm, examine each story, and walk your path with their message in mind.” – Jared “Jay B.” Boyd
Take an African American History Tour through memphis
Founded by Carolyn Micheal-Banks, A Tour of Possibilities is an African American History tour that takes you through Memphis, showcasing those on the tour the rich culture and history that runs deep in Memphis. It is an amazing experience that not only shows you something new but also entertains as well.
Behold Black History Through Ballet with collage dance collective
On February 3rd & 4th, you’re invited to experience Dr. Martin Luther King’s “Mountaintop” speech through movement as Collage Dance Collective’s “Rise” performance returns to revere the triumphs and trials of a troubled past.
Examine the African American History of Elmwood Cemetery
Many African American musicians, physicians, saints, and more were laid to rest in Elmwood Cemetery—and during this one-hour virtual, or in-person, presentation, you’ll learn about how each of them lived, loved, worked, and contributed to the history of Memphis and United States.
Honor afro-latino culture, contributions, and. accomplishments
While we commonly learn about the accomplishments made by historic Black figures, the imperative contributions made by Afro-Latinos are often left out of the conversation. Starting February 21st, Cazateatro Theatre Group is providing three days of programming that utilizes music, dance, poetry, and more to shed light on a different side of Black culture during Afro-Latino Week.
Catch a film for the culture
For the month of February, the Crosstown Arts Film Series will highlight two black films, one being The Last Dragon, starring Taimik, a cult classic and throwback to a simpler time in film. The other featured film is Memphis 13, which focuses on some of the smallest pioneers when they desegregated the Memphis City Schools. Two different features for two different vibes but both necessary in our current climate.
There's more to do during the month—and on the daily—as we work to uplight our black community.
- Head to the Summer Drive In to see Black History on the Big Screen- Feb. 2
Y’all know how Sundance Film Festival made its way to Memphis, thanks to Indie Memphis? Well, it just so happens that the two screenings happening on February 2nd, Ailey and Judah and the Black Messiah, give a nod to Black culture and catharsis. The screenings kick off at 6PM.
Learn more about the festivities here.
- Hear powerful proclamations during Hattiloo Theatre’s Say it Loud Series- Every Tuesday and Thursday in February at 6PM
Watch as actors from the only freestanding Black repertory theatre in five surrounding states perform speeches that were delivered by trailblazers like John H. Lewis, Booker T. Washington, Fannie Lou Hammer, Shirley Chisholm, and more.
Tune in here.
- Turn up the volume for Levitt Shell’s Black History Month Series- Every Saturday in February at 6:30PM
One thing about the Levitt Shell is they gon’ always give us some soulful sounds. They’re bringing back their virtual concert series for the month, and the line up includes the McCrary Sisters, Bettie Smith, Rhodes Jazz ft. Joyce Cobb, and more.
Each show will be streamed on their Facebook page.
- Learn about the African American History of Elmwood Cemetery- Feb. 16
Many African American musicians, physicians, saints, and more were laid to rest in Elmwood Cemetery—and during this one-hour virtual presentation, you’ll learn about how each of them lived, loved, worked, and contributed to the history of Memphis and United States.
Register to join in here.
- Listen to the Greats with Stax Music Academy- Feb. 17
Music has played a pivotal role in the fight for racial justice, and Stax Music Academy plans to blend the past with the present during their virtual Black History Month production. Not only will you be listening to legends like Al Green, Mavis Staples, Aretha, and more, but the SMA students are bringing original music too. Oh, and if you’re a teacher or parent of a young student, SMA will be providing study guides to help frame and shape conversations of key themes related to the show.
RSVP to the event here.
- Test Your Black History Month Knowledge with the Memphis Public Libraries- Feb. 23
Calling all teens! How much do you know about the Black leaders who were pioneering long before you were born? The Memphis Public Libraries invite you to test your wits and/or learn something new during Black History Month Virtual Jeopardy.
Register here. (P.S. Registration doesn’t open until the 15th)
- Cazateatro Theatre Group invites you to learn about Afro-Latinos’ Valuable Contributions- Feb. 24-27
While we commonly learn about the accomplishments made by historic Black figures, the imperative contributions made by Afro-Latinos are often left out of the conversation. Cazateatro Theatre is providing four days of programming that utilizes music, dance, poetry, and more to shed light on a different side of Black culture.
Find more details on Cazateatro’s Facebook page.
- Plan your own safer-at-home learning with the Advance Memphis Black History Month Family Guide
In addition to their programs promoting workforce and economic development in South Memphis, Advance Memphis is committed to promoting equity, combating racial injustice, and building a culture of appreciation for Black people and history. They’ve created a Black History Month Family Guide full of Memphis-centric Black history, along with activities for kids and families—crossword puzzles, coloring pages, and more.
Plan your family’s learning time and tune in to the Advance Memphis Instagram feed for giveaways featuring Black artists!
