Courtesy of the Minnesota Historical Society
Roy Wilkins,
Roy Wilkins (center) was raised in the Twin Cities and led the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People from 1949 to 1977. Pictured with Martin Luther King and Thurgood Marshall, c.1959. Photograph by Cecil Layne.
While February is certainly a time to celebrate Black History, we should work to recognize the impact that Black Americans make in Minnesota every day. We’ve compiled a list of in-person and virtual events to get you started this month.
Black History Month Arts & Culture Celebration Series at St. Paul Public Libraries
Feb 15, 22, 25
St. Paul Library’s series for Black History month is celebrating Black artists, authors, and dancers. They’ve organized an author expo, a kid-friendly drawing class, and a music and movement performance, all dedicated to celebrating different facets of Black artistry. This series was designed to be an environment where Black and African American people can connect on shared culture and experiences, so take that into consideration when registering for events. Multiple Twin Cities locations, sppl.bibliocommons.com
Testify
“Testify: Americana from Slavery Until Today” is back at Hennepin County Library for Black History Month. The exhibit showcases African American art, artifacts, and ephemera from former Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Alan Page’s personal collection. Page was the first Black justice to be elected to Minnesota’s Supreme Court, and his family has worked to preserve and explore Black history through the development of the Diane and Allan Page collection. Testify also includes events and programs that go throughout Black History month and continue through the end of March. 300 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., hclib.org
Hennepin County Library Events
Hennepin County Library is hosting multiple education events for Black History Month, with plans for lectures throughout the month. They’re even hosting a continuing legal education course on slavery’s legal legacy. Hennepin County Library has also crafted book lists for people of all ages to enrich their understanding of African American history. Multiple library locations, hclib.org
Minnesota Historical Society Events
Feb. 8-9, 12-13
Minnesota Historical Society is celebrating Black History Month with a series of family programs, lectures, and music. From a lecture on the Pullman Brothers, to a family friendly craft activity, MNHS offers something for everyone this Black History Month. To see event specifics, head to their website. 345 Kellogg Blvd W., St. Paul, mnhs.org
Reflections on the Black Liberation Movement in Minnesota: A Conversation with Dr. Yohuru Williams
Feb. 16
The Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery is hosting a discussion on the Black Liberation movement in Minnesota. Dr. Yohuru Williams will lead the discussion by diving into the catalysts and leaders of the movement and the racial reckoning of 2020. Visitors can arrive at the lecture early to explore the museum’s galleries. 1256 Penn Avenue N. Fourth Floor, Mpls., maahmg.org
The Black Market Black History Month Celebration
Feb. 11
If you’re looking for an opportunity to shop from Black vendors and support small business, The Black Market’s Black History Month Celebration is the place to be. To celebrate the month, they’ll have food, games, music, giveaways and more. Catch the Black Market on the second Saturday of each month. 767 North Eustis St., St. Paul, eventbrite.com
Essence of Gospel with Kimberly Brown
Feb. 18
Celebration is an inherent part of gospel music, which makes Kimberly Brown’s Essence of Gospel concert the perfect place to celebrate Black History Month. Kimberly Brown has won multiple awards for her musical efforts, as well as her work in community building. She’s also a former member of the Grammy-winning group Sounds of Blackness. Head to this concert to find a little community uplift and bask in fabulous gospel sound. Tickets start at $15. 2665 4th Ave, Anoka, eventbrite.co
“Change Is Gonna Come” Concert Series
Saint Joan of Arc is celebrating Black History Month with a multimedia storytelling event entitled “Change is Gonna Come.” Performers include T Mychael Rambo, Thomasina Petrus, Julius Collins, Charmin Michelle, the SJA Choir and more. Through performances, film, photography, and storytelling, the event explores the legacy of the Saint Joan of Arc community. Tickets are $10 for students and $30 for adults. 4537 3rd Ave S, Mpls., saintjoanofarc.org
Annual Black History Month MN Fashion Exhibition
Feb. 25
The Annual Black History Month MN Fashion exhibition is on at that state capitol. The exhibition celebrates local black creators in the fashion community. Presented by Porte Management, the exhibition will be ready for viewing at noon on February 25. The exhibition is free and open to the public, but reserved seating tickets grant access to a panel discussion, food, and drinks. Tickets are $35. 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, St. Paul, eventbrite.com
I Am My Ancestors Wildest Dreams Expo
Feb. 25
Minneapolis’s Racial Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Department is hosting the first ever I Am My Ancestors Wildest Dreams Expo for Black History Month. The event is a celebratory gathering, featuring black owned businesses, guest speakers, live music, poetry. The event is suitable for people of all ages, and even includes a performance tailored for kids aged 4 and up. This event is free and open to the public, and is sure to be a day of joy, learning, and community. Minneapolis Convention Center 1301 2nd Avenue South, Mpls., eventbrite.com
