Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation is offering Black History-themed events across the city throughout the month of February.
Some of the programming includes an opportunity to learn Black history and highlight Black culture through drumming, weekly discussions at ArchiveCLT, and a movie screening for people to learn the historical significance of specific parks and recreation locations.
The events are listed below:
*Some events have age requirements.
Know Your History
The program will empower youth to learn more about their past, learn about leaders who are not mentioned in mainstream media, and introduce them to different Black leaders who have made major impact.
When: Wednesdays in February through Feb. 22, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Where: Naomi Drenan Recreation Center
Who: Kids, ages 6-12
Registration: $2 for residents, $3 for non-residents
Local History Thursdays at ArchiveCLT sponsored by Park and Recreation
Hear stories from westside figures every Thursday at ArchiveCLT. Enjoy a complimentary beverage, while supplies last.
When: Thursdays in February through Feb. 23, 1-3 p.m.
Where: Archive CLT
Who: Open to everyone
Registration: Free
Be BOLD! Celebrating Black Women in History
Stop by to learn about the contributions of Black women in history and how we can be just as bold and fearless. Kids can create a door hanger that will serve as a reminder to walk through any door boldly and fearlessly!
When: Feb. 9 , 5 – 6 p.m.
Where: Southview Recreation Center
Who: Kids ages 8-16
Registration: Free
Black History Drums for Life
Enjoy a special presentation with Drums for Life.
When: Feb. 20 , 2 – 3 p.m.
Where: David B. Waymer Recreation Center
Registration: Free
Lawrence Orr: Chronicle of A Life Fulfilled
Watch a film depicting the life of local community leader Lawrence Orr. Orr’s contributions to Mecklenburg County include advocacy for African American land ownership in the face of segregation. He also advocated for access for Black students to attend high school during a time in the county’s history when there were no high schools for African American students. A Q&A with the film’s director, Frederick Murphy, will follow the screening.
When: Feb. 20, 6 p.m.
Where: Tyvola Senior Center
Registration: Free
Dancing Through Black History
Participants will learn how to do dances from the past and how they connect dances of this generation.
When: Feb. 23, 5-6 p.m.
Where: Southview Recreation Center
Who: Ages 6 – 17
Registration: Free
Black History Month Fashion Show
When: Feb. 24 , 4 – 6 p.m.
Where: Eastway Regional Recreation Center
Who: Ages 55+
Registration: Free
Black History Bingo/Trivia
How well do you know Black history? Test your knowledge with bingo and trivia.
When: Feb. 27, 2 – 3 p.m.
Where: David B. Waymer Recreation Center
Registration: Free Register online
