Black History Month in Worcester: What you need to know
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WORCESTER — For more than 50 years, February has been observed as Black History Month, when the history, tribulations and contributions of Black Americans are celebrated and honored.
It began nearly a century ago, when an organization founded by historian Carter G. Woodson and prominent minister Jesse E. Moorland sponsored a national Negro History Week. They chose the second week in February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
Students and faculty at Kent State University in Ohio were the first to observe Black History Month, in 1970, according to the university's website. President Gerald Ford recognized Black History Month in 1976, during the celebration of the nation's bicentennial.
Communities across the country will have their own events and Worcester is no different. Here are some events to check out over the next month.
Worcester Black History Project
Feb. 1 to 29: Gallery open Tuesday through Saturday.Krikorian Gallery, 25 Sagamore Road, Worcester
Art exhibition featuring work by Black artists responding to the theme "Catch the Fire," in reference to the poem of the same name by poet and activist, Sonia Sanchez. Opening reception will be held Friday, Feb. 3 from 4 to 6 p.m.
ABCs of Bike Repair by Landry Bicycles
Saturday, Feb. 3. 2 to 3:30 p.m.Saxe Room, Worcester Public Library, 3 Salem Square, Worcester
In honor of historic Black athlete Major Taylor, the Worcester Public Library is holding a youth workshop on bike repair and maintenance, such as keeping your air, brakes and chains in working order. Bring your bike! For ages 12 to 17. Registration required on the Worcester Public Library website.
Mental Health and Prison System
Thursday, Feb. 8. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beechwood Hotel, 363 Plantation St., Worcester
Organized by the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, the event will feature a panel of speakers discussing the issues of mass incarceration and community integration for Black Americans suffering from mental health struggles. RSVP by Feb. 2
The Oppressed Head: A Historical Review of the Beauty and Identity of Black Women’s Hair and Headdress
Tuesday, Feb. 13. 3 to 5 p.m.Higgins Lounge, Dana Commons, 2nd floor at Clark University, 36 Maywood St., WorcesterFree
A lecture by Dr. Tameka Ellington discussing how Black women's hair is viewed in a society catering to white sensibilities and the unequal treatment that can arise. Lecture will be followed by a reception and book signing of Ellington's book, "Black Hair in a White World."
Private community viewing of "Bob Marley: One Love"
Wednesday, Feb. 14. 6 p.m. arrival, film starts at 7 p.m.Blackstone Valley Cinema, 70 Worcester-Providence Turnpike, MillburyTickets: Adult $25, children $20
The Village Worcester and OurStory Edutainment will be hosting a viewing of upcoming biographical film "Bob Marley: One Love." Must register online in advance.
50th Anniversary Hip Hop, Wortown Rising
Thursday, Feb. 15. 5:30 p.m.Sullivan Auditorium, 486 Chandler St., WorcesterFree
Screening by Worcester State University's Office of Multicultural Affairs of the documentary "Wortown Rising," depicting the origins of Worcester's own brand of hip hop music and culture, followed by a post-film discussion with the director and panelists. Snow date scheduled for Feb. 22.
Black History Month Youth Extravaganza
Sunday, Feb. 18. 3 to 5 p.m.The Village Worcester, 4 King St., WorcesterFree
Family event designed to educate young people about Black History Month through arts, crafts and activities.
Quinsigamond Community College Alumni Soul Food Brunch
Saturday, Feb. 24. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.Quinsigamond Community College, Harrington Learning Center, Rooms 109 A and B, 670 West Boylston St., Worcester
Speakers from Quinsigamond Community College including President Luis Pedraja will be present at this event presented by the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Events across Worcester during Black History Month
