“History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again.”
-Maya Angelou
This quote perfectly describes one of the most important reasons to celebrate Black History Month: it is crucial that we learn from the past in order to create a better future. Detroit in particular has such a vibrant and rich history of Black culture. We should all take the time to celebrate the triumphs and acknowledge the tragedies of the past.
Celebrating Black History Month can be a great opportunity to support Black-owned businesses, learn about Black history, and celebrate notable Black Americans. Below are some ideas for celebrating Black History Month in and around Detroit.
Ann Arbor District Library
A number of in-person and online events for all ages, including movie screenings and a live theater performance by Black & Brown Theater.
Association for the Study of African American Life and History
Virtual programming celebrating the theme of “African Americans and the Arts”.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
Several events including screenings of films each Sunday on different prominent Black Americans. There is also a book talk with author Ibram X. Kendi on February 1st.
City of Detroit
Their website (linked above) highlights a number of community events and Black-owned business to support.
City of Southfield Parks and Recreation Department
In-person Black History Month events can be found on the calendar on their website.
Detroit Institute of Art
A number of events for all ages including Storytelling with Madelyn Porter on Saturday, February 10. Madelyn is a talented local performer guaranteed to entertain and educate.
Detroit Public Library
A literary contest, oral history collection, book recommendations, and ideas for inspiring our kids.
Henry Ford Museum
In addition to several special exhibits, the museum celebrates this month with a number of dance, drama, and music performances.
Motown Museum
Motown Museum features exhibits focused on Motown music and many of our favorite Black performers from that era.
Pontiac Public Library
Check out a special Black History Month Celebration on February 10 featuring author Hill Harper, along with the annual teen and youth essay contest.
Southfield Public Library
“Black History Mysteries” every week for families to solve together.
Taste the Diaspora
Each week in February will honor a specific cuisine. Shoebox lunches are curated and sold by local chefs, Black farmers, and food makers all partnering together.
If you have other ideas of how to celebrate Black History Month, comment below and share the details! We wish you a joyful, reflective, and educational month!
