Hey Mama Hey! It’s February and this is when we shine a special light on the accomplishments and rich history of Black History! The great thing about Black History is that it is still evolving and happening everyday.
My FRESH approach to celebrating Black History Month is taking them to places were they can EXPERIENCE the history. They can play a part. Gone are the days of being silent and walking through museum halls. We are inventing, singing, dancing and reading all month…after all this is a celebration!
Check out my segment on Windy City Live where I talk about all of these Here
Museum of Science and Industry celebrates BHM all month long with their annual Black Creativity exhibit.
*MSI is having their largest Juried Art Exhibition yet to celebrate BHM. There are over 170 works of art from professional and student artists, including well known artist like Harmonia Rosales and Hebru Brantley.
*Make sure you visit the Innovation Studio. In this creative space you get to become the innovator. Your little ones will also learn about local innovators and creators like Chicago artist Shala.
*Black Creativity Career Showcase: Feb 23rd
Great for TEENS! Get the chance to explore careers in innovation and science by speaking right to the professionals. Artist, Scientist, engineers will be on hand to chat one on one with a glimpse into their career.
(These activities are included in admission to the museum and included on the Illinois resident free days.)
Chicago Children’s Choir – Black History Month Concert. Feb 25th-27th
My favorite feature of this event is the Chicago Children’s Choir. This amazing all student choir will perform an educational AND entertaining tribute to Black Culture. This year they are being joined by Grammy award winner Donald Lawrence. This event is FREE
Chicago Park District
Chicago Park District has more than 10 free events happening all over the city to celebrate BHM. My favorite is Ashaki Black History Celebration at Washington Park. On Feb 23rd, this event will be filled with cultural exhibits, live entertainment and delicious food and local vendors
South Side Storytime @ The New Green Line Performing Arts Center: Feb 24th 10a
This event represents the diversity of Chicago’s storytelling community. Readers will share some of their favorite books dedicated to Black History. This is not the “gather around” and whisper story time you might be used to. I have attended and there is a building of community through socializing with kids and parents. I have attended this story time and had such an amazing time I forgot it was 10am!
Social Works Chi: Open Mike Black History Month Celebration Edition (Feb 11)
This event is specifically for the high school student in your life. Open Mike creates a space where teens can share their talent and express themselves. The first 100 students receive special membership packages from the DuSable Museum.