3 Ways for Families to Engage and Honor African American Heritage
by Allison Todd and Stacey Coles
February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate the rich history, culture, and achievements and honor the generations of African Americans who have fought for freedom, civil rights, and racial justice. This February, families can go beyond simply acknowledging the month by actively participating in relevant educational, cultural, and community-centered activities. Here are meaningful ways you and your family can celebrate Black History Month, inspired by events and resources from the Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL): ATTEND LOCAL PROGRAMS AND LIVE PERFORMANCES The whole family can celebrate Black History Month at your local library by attending fun, educational events! Presentations and Discussions: Join producer, MC, and teaching artist Baba Bomani as he uses rhythm and rhyme to explain basic reading and math concepts and breaks down the ABCs of hip hop for kids. Adults are invited to participate in a discussion on developing Black Entertainment District and learn how the Bay and tributaries were used in the underground railroad with the Blacks of the Chesapeake. Performances: Children can celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with Bright Star Touring Theatre’s powerful production, which captures key moments from his childhood to his role as a civil rights hero. The whole
family can see Carly Harvey light up the stage with her incredible blend of Blues, Jazz, and Soul. Looking for something a bit more engaging? Discover the magic of Capoeira Angola, an Afro-Brazilian tradition that incorporates music, movement, and community, with Contramestre BabaJan from Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. You will see a small capoeira game, experience a demonstration of traditional music, and learn how to do a few basic movements, as well as play the instruments. STEAM and Screenings: Kids can attend the Black Excellence! program, where they’ll learn about African Americans who have made positive impacts and participate in various activities and crafts while learning! Learn about Black scientists and inventors with some open-ended, explorative fun! For a more relaxing experience, attend a movie session! Screenings for various age groups at area libraries include Julie Dash's Daughters of the Dust (1991; NR), The Color Purple (2023; PG-13), and Little Mermaid (2023; PG). Visit our Black History Month events calendar at aacpl. net/blackhistory for a complete list of programs. LEARN TOGETHER WITH DIGITAL RESOURCES Having an AACPL library card gives you access to a plethora of digital resources right at home making it easy to have an educational celebration right at home. Plus, it’s an easy and free way to support Black entertainers and important relevant works.
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