Mohawk Valley celebrates Black History Month. Here are some upcoming events
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For almost a hundred years each state has celebrated Black History Month during February.
Rome NAACP Branch President Jacqueline Nelson calls it, “a time to honor African Americans who have shaped our country through triumphs and trauma.”
Below are five local events that acknowledge black trailblazers of the past and celebrate those of the present.
About Black History Month
Curious as to how Black History Month began? Nelson has simplified the history behind it all.
In February of 1926 Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a black author and historian, announced the first Negro History Week. While it took some time to gain national recognition, in 1976 President Gerald Ford issued a statement declaring an annual observance of Black History Month, she said.
“February is an important time to remember those from black inventors to scientists, writers to performers, educators to scholars, leaders to activists,” emphasized Nelson. “Black History is American history and it should be taught transparently and accurately.
How to celebrate (with the kids):
This year’s commemorative events focus on youth empowerment, the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and black maternal care. Nelsen said locals can expect options for age groups, pre-K through adolescence, “so be sure to mark your calendars.”
Here are a few options for celebrating with the kids:
On Feb. 13 at 2:30 p.m. Rome Free Academy (RFA) will host a screening of the 2024 New York State short film on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Afterwards Utica University Associate Professor of History Dr. Clemmie Harris and RFA History teacher Riccardo Dursi will facilitate a student discussion on how Dr. King’s legacy has persisted, and changed, overtime.
On Feb. 21 at 10:30 a.m. the Rome NAACP will host its annual Black History Month story time at Jervis Public Library.
The Rome NAACP Youth Council will read children's books both written by black authors or featuring black lead characters. Representatives from Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS), The Center of Utica, and Connected Community Schools will offer free refreshments and giveaways at the event.
Also at the library, on Feb. 21 at 2 p.m. there is a screening of The Princess and The Frog, Disney’s first motion-picture to feature an African American princess.
“We are hosting both storytime and the screening over February break, when the kids are out of school, so those without travel plans will still have something to do,” said Nelson.
Minority maternal crisis
For adults, there will be two screenings of Aftershock, a documentary on black maternal care, at 5 p.m. on Feb. 16 at the Wynn Hospital in Utica and Feb. 29 at Rome Health Hospital.
After the showing at Wynn Hospital, Medical Director of OB/GYN Services for the Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) Dr. Rose Antilus will clear the way for a discussion on the minority maternal crisis.
Aftershock was first premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, as part of the U.S. Dramatic and Documentary Competition, and awarded the Special Jury Award: Impact for Change. The plot looks at two black families impacted by the death of a mother during childbirth complications.
“Black Americans face higher risks of infant and maternal mortality compared to white counterparts,” said Nelson. “We hope this film kicks off a discussion about strengthening prenatal and maternal care.”
'Our community must continue to show up and speak out'
According to Nelson the theme of racial reconciliation is particularly resonant this year.
“In 2023 we saw the peeling back of rights we lived with our whole lives– like affirmative action,” said Nelson. “We are responsible for ensuring our children and grandchildren live in a nation where they aren’t judged by the color of their skin but rather their character. We must rally together.”
Nelson summarized the general mood of the local black community as “displeased.”
“There are many times we have felt isolated and disrespected,” admitted Nelson. “ Our community must continue to show up and speak out. I always say that if you are a member of a group, organization or club and when you sit at your board meetings you only see people that look like you that you can do better.”
Nelson said she finds her motivation by looking to where progress has been made, referring to local health care as an example.
A salute to black veterans
Some events celebrating Black History Month have already happened.
To start the month off strong, Oaré Beyah, the first female African American chaplain to represent American Legion Post 229, orchestrated an event to uplift black veterans.
A tribute was held on Feb. 3 at the Raymour and Flanigan in Yorkville. Later that afternoon a memorial wall, honoring over 70 deceased service members, was put on display at the Carol L. Crooms Cultural Center.
“By shining a light on deceased black veterans the event underscored the importance of diversity in our commemorative efforts,” said Beyah. “It also provided living veterans the chance to foster fellowship and solidarity amongst one another.”
Beyah applauded the live music by New Horizons Chorus and the food catered by O’Conners. She called the event a resounding success with almost 120 attendees, including state Senator Joseph Griffo.
“Events like these honor the past and inspire hope for the future,” said Beyah. “Reinforcing the values of diversity and community is what Black History Month is all about.”
This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Black History Month: Events to celebrate in Mohawk Valley in February
