As we begin 2017, it seems more important than ever to become informed about the diverse cultures that make up our local communities. The month of February has long been celebrated as Black History Month (also known as National African American History Month) and Indianapolis area organizations have put together events which showcase the achievements, struggles, and voices of the African-American community. While we celebrate and learn, we begin to understand the impact and contributions of African-Americans in Indianapolis and beyond.
Now – January 16th, 2017
Black History Month T-Shirt Voting
In celebration of the Pacers Dream Big Initiative, the Pacers are hosting a Black History Month T-Shirt Design Contest. Check out the designs and vote for your favorite online here: http://www.nba.com/pacers/2017-black-history-month-t-shirt-voting/
The winning design will be sold in the Home Court Gift Shop in February.
January 16th, 2017
Community Day: Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration: Speaking of Love at the Indianapolis Museum of Art
Although not technically a Black History Month event, the IMA tends to put together beautifully influential experiences, so put this one on your list. Celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with Indy area poets, singers, and artists, while they share about love. There will be large group meditation and random acts of kindness. The event runs from 1-4pm and is free with a donation of canned food, toiletries, or school supplies to the Martin Luther King Community Center.
January 22nd – March 19th, 2017
Hot Jazz for Cool Kids at Central Library
Now in its sixth season, these family-friendly events feature Indy’s leading Jazz musicians in a fun and educational concert setting. This year’s artists include the Rob Dixon Quintet, The Allen Turk Burke Quintet, and the Charlie Ballantine Group. These free concerts take place at Clowes Auditorium, 40 E. St. Clair Street. Call 317-275-4099 for more information.
January 28th, 2017
Art & Soul Kickoff Celebration
Art & Soul 2017 celebrates empowerment through the arts. Lift your voice and take part in the kickoff celebration featuring a procession of African drumming by Griot Drum Ensemble, featured artists and arts leaders; audience members singing the Black National Anthem; a jazz tribute to President Obama; an inspirational dance performance by Krash Krew Dance; engaging activities by local arts and cultural organizations; and an art exhibition by Featured Artist Tiffany Marie Parker. Meet Featured Artists: Carrington Clinton (Music), Devon Ginn (Literary/Theatre), Taylar Green (Dance), and Tiffany Marie Parker (Visual).
Visit their website www.indyarts.org/art-soul to see a list a description of individual events.
January 31 – March 26, 2017
Meet the Artists XXIX at Central Library
View the unique works of 25 locally prominent African-American artists using many different mediums during this exhibit which runs through March. This free public viewing includes quilts, acrylic, jewelry, human-sized dolls, mixed-media sculpture, and more. The entire community is invited to celebrate the African-American art works and enjoy an evening of cultural entertainment during the Meet the Artists Gala Opening Reception on Saturday, February 11 from 5:45 p.m. – 10 p.m. at Central Library where visitors can meet the artists and enjoy on-stage performances. For children there is a face-painting clown, a coloring workshop, interactive gadgets, and a bottle-cap tambourine workshop.
February 2nd, 2017
Black History Month at The Children’s Museum
Target free family fun night allows families to visit for free from 4-7 one Thursday a month. In February, come celebrate Black History Month with an evening of education and activities for the entire family.
February 2nd, 2017
Hidden History Black History Month Program at Cathedral High School
Stop by Cathedral High School for a social hour and appetizers followed by a program with a Keynote address by Mahja Zeon and a performance by the Cathedral Gospel Choir. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Purchase here: http://www.gocathedral.com/page.cfm?p=2513
February 10th, 2017
Bronwen Forbay and the Voices of Light Chorus at the Hilbert Circle Theater
The music of African-American composer Kimo Williams, Al Yungton, and Woody Woods will be featured, along with other works including traditional spirituals. This free collaboration with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra is a celebration of Black History Month. 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm Call for Info: 317-639-4300
February 18, 2017
Black Violin at Clowes Memorial Hall
Wil Baptiste on viola and Kev Marcus on violin make up the Black Violin string duo whose music is a complex mash-up of classical and hip-hop. This unexpected collaboration has sent them around the world to share their sound. Here in the U.S. they have played for the POTUS at the Inaugural Ball and collaborated with P. Diddy, Tom Petty, and other well-known artists. Tickets starting at $20. Reserve here: http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/050050BBC3424121#efeat4211
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The post February is Black History Month: How to Celebrate and Learn with Indianapolis Area Events appeared first on Indy with Kids.