Celebrate Black History Month with Community Events

Join in on multiple community events being held in honor of Black History Month in February.

Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre

An evening of conversation with Black Evanstonian History Makers Up Close

February 10, 7 p.m., Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre in the Noyes Cultural Arts Center
Be a part of the conversations with Evanston’s history makers Bennet Johnson and Gerri Sizemore. Admission is free and light snacks and beverages will be served.

Stage reading of the play Maya’s Last Poem

February 7, 6 p.m., Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, 2121 Sheridan Rd. 
The Center for the Church and the Black Experience at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Northwestern University and Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre will host the stage reading of the hit play “Maya’s Last Poem” by Tim Rhoze and featuring actors Jacqueline Williams and Joslyn Jones. The stage reading will be followed by a lively discussion about the play’s theme. Reading will take place at 6 p.m., hosted at the Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, 2121 Sheridan Rd. Admission is free and light snacks and beverages will be served.

Legends of R&B Concert: A Soul Stirring tribute to Aretha, Etta and Luther

February 23, 3 p.m.,  Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre in the Noyes Cultural Arts Center
This concert stars powerhouse singers Qiana McNary (Crowns/Aretha Franklin Tribute Concert), Ricky Harris (Crowns), Mardra Thomas (Lady Day at Emerson Bar & Grill/Crowns), and The Reginald Thomas Band. Tickets are $30 online or $40 at the door. There will be a post-concert Hecky’s BBQ buffet. 

Northwestern University

NU Campus Keynote, Tarana Burke

January 27, 5 p.m., Pick-Staiger Concert Hall
Tarana Burke shares the story behind the genesis of the viral 2017 TIME Person Of The Year-winning ‘me too.’ Movement, and gives strength and healing to those who have experienced sexual trauma or harassment. Ticket required for admission.

“My Black Is…” A Black History Month Closing Celebration

February 27, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., 1856 Orrington Residence Hall, 1856 Orrington Ave.

Black House Community Night: AfroBeats Dance Workshop & Party

February 24, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., 1856 Orrington Residence Hall, 1856 Orrington Ave.
Celebrate Black History Month with an AfroBeats dance workshop facilitated by members of AfroThunda. Dinner will be provided.

Black Girl Meetup

February 19, Noon to 1 p.m., Women's Center, 2000 Sheridan Rd.

Lovin’ You: A Poetry Workshop about Self-Love featuring Harold Green, III

February 14, 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m., 1856 Orrington Residence Hall, 1856 Orrington Ave.

Black House Community Night: Sip & Paint

February 10, 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., 1856 Orrington Residence Hall, 1856 Orrington Ave.

Evanston Public Library 

River of Blood: American Slavery From People Who Lived It

February 12, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Evanston Public Library, 1703 Orrington Ave. 
Hosted by Dino Robinson, founder of Shorefront Legacy. Readings by actress Celeste Williams. With historian Adam Green, University of Chicago. Richard Cahan and Michael Williams, book editors.

Local organizations and groups are invited to submit MLK Day events and programs for posting on the City of Evanston's website. Information should be sent to communications@cityofevanston.org. Events will be posted as soon as they are submitted. All events are free unless otherwise noted.