Enjoy a month of programs to celebrate the history and achievements of African Americans. Learn about the culture through authors, films, exhibits and more. All programs are free and open to the public.
Darryl Littleton: A Cultural History of Black ComediansAuthor and comedian Darryl Littleton, also known as “D’Militant” for his slicing and incisive social and political commentary, shares a unique history lesson with a serving of witty side notes.
832-393-1662
Presentation “The Changing Face of Houston’s African-American Community: Findings from 33 Years of Houston Surveys”Dr. Stephen Klineberg, Founding Director of Rice University’s
Kinder Institute for Urban Research, reports on central findings with responses from community leaders including Dr. Rod Paige, former U.S. Secretary of Education.
5300 Caroline, 77004, 832-393-2600
Houston Grand Opera presents “First Songs: Peace, Hope, Dreams”
Young children from birth to preschool age, along with their caregivers, are introduced to soothing songs from a teaching artist. Featuring songs adapted from children’s books, "All the Colors of the Earth" and "Sleep," as well as African American spirituals. Participants learn to use music as a tool to interact with young ones during reading time.
The African American Library at the Gregory School, 1300 Victor St., 77019
832-393-1440
Events - February 2015
Who’s Winning?
Saturday, February 7, 2015 | 1 PM
When the choice was made by Black and White civic leaders in 1960 not to publicize the desegregation of lunch counters in Houston, many Houstonians were angered not only by the act itself but also by the apparent concealment of the information by the city’s leading media outlets. Jade Cooper’s work "Who’s Winning?" visually questions the strategy implemented by Houston leaders to eradicate discriminatory acts. In response to Cooper’s piece, join us for a Game Day and Chess Tournament. Games will be provided.
In Reaction to the Civil Rights Movement
Saturday, February 7, 2015 | 2:30 PM
There is an increasing need for meaningful discourse, particularly on the issues highlighted by the Civil Rights Movement. Join "Organized Love: Ideas on Non-Violence" artist Anthony Suber as he recontextualizes the purpose and latent meaning behind photographs, writings, and art that have been created in reaction to civil disobedience and non-violent struggle.
Play — "Our Feet Can Tell a Story"
Thursday, February 12, 2015 | 11AM
This production celebrates the profound cultural contributions of African Americans through music and dance. Written by Houston playwright Thomas Meloncon. Suitable for all ages. Seating is limited. Call 832-393-1440 for reservations.
Houston Ebony Opera Guild — Robert A. Henry Lecture 2015 — The Art and Craft of the African American Composer: An exploration of the work and audience expectations of African American Composers
Saturday, February 14, 2015 | 2 PM
Led by Dr. John L. Cornelius, the discussion will focus on primary aspects of the artistic impulse: What makes a composer write in a way that is different than before? Is the level of expectation greater, lesser or the same for African American composers? Nathaniel Dett’s
"The Ordering of Moses" and "
Duke Ellington’s Sacred Concerts' will be examined through excerpts, anecdotes, and historical comparisons for insight into their gestation and fruition. Co-sponsored by Friends of
Houston Ebony Opera Guild.
Closing Program — "Organized Love: Ideas on Non-Violence"
Panel Discussion and Selected Readings
Saturday, February 21, 2015 | 2 PM
Join
"Organized Love: Ideas on Non-Violence" participating artists as they discuss their processes for creating their works in the exhibition. Readings by Thomas Meloncon and Garry Reece. This exhibit is a collaboration with the
Menil Collection and other institutions.
Du Bois Was Wrong – The Problem of the 20th and 21st Century is the Color Line
Saturday, February 28, 2015 | 2 PM
Dr. James Jones III, instructor at Prairie View A&M University’s History Department, is an expert in contemporary African American history and has authored numerous publications. This community discussion will revolve around the idea that since the issue of race is still plaguing America, we must begin to question the responsibility of the group that Du Bois characterizes as the ‘Talented-Tenth’ to an African American community that lags behind other communities. These programs are free and open to the public. Receptions to follow.
Other African American History Month Events At HPL
832-393-2600.
Amandla Productions: "Under the Griot Tree"Saturday, February 14, 2015 | 2 PM
Central Library, 4th Floor Program Place
For a complete list of African American History Month programs at the Houston Public Library, please visit: www.houstonlibrary.org or call 832-393-1313.