Hannibal Celebrates Black History Month – Power in Partnerships

Hannibal Celebrates Black History Month – Power in Partnerships

Black history – learn it, live it, make it!! Our 2022 Black History Month theme is “Our Story: African. Black. American.

It officially began February 1st as an opportunity for friends and neighbors to learn our nation’s inclusive and diverse history as we celebrate the contributions of Black Americans.

Black or African American History Month began in1926 when Harvard graduate and historian Carter Woodson created Negro History week. It was in response to the lack of factual information about Blacks in history books and classrooms. In 1976 after  decades of struggle President Gerald Ford officially recognized February as Black History Month to validate the hurdles as well as the achievements of Black Americans. It’s clear now that Black history is American history. And so we must continue the pursuit of visibility and authentic representation of Black life in America.

Some great things are happening locally! There will be an art exhibit curated by Faye Dant and hosted by the Alliance Art Gallery throughout the month. This exhibition, titled “Our Story:  African. Black. American” will feature art by Black Americans that depicts and celebrates the Black experiences. An opening reception will be held for this exhibition on February 12 from 4:00 until 7:00. And on February 19th there will be a Community Celebration co-sponsored by Hannibal Parks and Recreation at the Admiral Coontz Armory from 3 until 10 PM.  The Hannibal Arts Council, Continental Cement and others donated to the celebration.

Look for posters and banners announcing these events and celebrating Black History Month displayed all over Hannibal – businesses,  churches, nonprofits and schools. A Hannibal High School History Club member “Rose” created one of the posters which  they then distributed district-wide. You’ll see posters created by the Alliance Art Gallery and Hannibal Parks and Recreation. In partnership with the local Chamber of Commerce you’ll even see a billboard announcement at Broadway and Maple.

The February 19th Celebration at the Armory will include awesome food and family-oriented activities, educational games and entertainment. We will kick it off at 10am with a yoga class led by Talya Mayfield. The doors officially open at 3pm, drop by to compete in one of the games – Black history trivia, Bingo or a basketball free throw contest. Later young and old can sing or dance for another opportunity to win one of our awesome prizes.  Dance into the evening to hits from our DJ and local musical artist, Spencer Camp.

All events are free and open to the public.  We will continue to sponsor more cultural events, next up is our 25th annual Juneteenth Festival. Volunteers are always welcome.