February marks Black History Month, a time to "honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history," as President Gerald R. Ford once stated.
Throughout Western North Carolina, many events and celebrations will be held, honoring the accomplishments and history of Black Americans.
Here are some of those events:
Asheville/Buncombe County
- Black Wall Street AVL has hosted several events during February, including a brunch for community members to gather and get to know one another.
- CLICK HERE for updates and information on future events.
“February is a time to recognize, celebrate, and highlight the struggles, successes, and contributions of Black Americans,” according to D. Tyrell McGirt, APR Director. “Through art, food, movies, and more, the community is invited to pay tribute to the legacy of achievement in the context of Asheville’s and the nation’s pasts and shine a light on inspirational moments happening in the present that will define our futures. Everyone is invited to celebrate and thoughtfully reflect at one or more of these opportunities.”
Feb. 16, 2-4 p.m. – Celebrating Black Asheville at Harvest House Community Center
- Learn about important moments in local Black history – from guest speakers who lived through the journey – followed by a group discussion. Please call (828) 350-2061 for more info.
Feb. 17, 6-8 p.m. – Southside Presents: Black History Through the Eyes of Art Opening Reception at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center
- Examine how local artists acknowledge and celebrate Black heritage in fascinating ways through different mediums. Reception will feature light bites with artwork on display during regular center hours through Feb. 28. To submit art pieces, register online or call the center at (828) 259-5843.
Feb. 23, 6-8 p.m. – Soul Food Supper at Stephens-Lee Community Centerwomen service food at banquet table
- In the late 19th century, the church became a gathering place for the Black community and impacted the development of what’s now considered soul food. Fried chicken, fried fish, sweet potato pie, sweet tea, black-eyed peas, cornbread, and more were served during Emancipation celebrations and church gatherings. Celebrate 100 years of Stephens-Lee High School at this dinner sponsored by school alumni and the East End/Valley Street Neighborhood Association with down-home cooking that’s been passed down through the generations. Advance registration is requested to help with planning. Please call (828) 350-2058 for more info.
Feb. 23, 2-4 p.m. – Pie Baking Contest at Grove Street Community Center
- A staple throughout Black culinary history, pie recipes are often a closely-held secret only handed down when the time is right. To enter a pie, register online or call the center at (828) 350-2062.
Feb. 24, 3:30-5:30 p.m. – Dr. George Washington Carver Edible Park Work and Learn Day at Stephens-Lee Community Center
- Did you know one of the oldest community food forests is located in Asheville? With over 40 varieties of fruit and nut trees, a butterfly habitat, and annual vegetable garden, maintaining this space named for the famous inventor and agricultural scientist is a year-round job for volunteers. Please call (828) 350-2058 for more info.
Asheville Black Legacy Month pop-up gallery
- Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) invites local artists of all mediums to submit pieces to display during a pop-up gallery celebrating Black Legacy Month from Feb 17-28 at Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center . Participants should register online at https://bit.ly/APR_Call_for_Artists and drop off submissions between Feb. 13-16. Interested artists may also stop by the center or call (828) 259-5483 to register.
- The show, titled “Southside Presents: Black History Through the Eyes of Art,” opens with a reception on Friday, Feb. 17, from 6-8 p.m. and art pieces will remain available for viewing through Tuesday, Feb. 28, during regular center hours. Grant Southside Center is located on 285 Livingston St.
Henderson County
Black History Collective
- The Black History Collective of Henderson County is hosting a free event on Feb. 25 at 2 p.m. celebrating Black History Month.
- Performing art events will highlight the Harlem Renaissance, the seven principles of Kwanzaa and there will be an art exhibit by two local students.
If you are hosting or know of any Black History Month events that you would like added to this story, please email news@wlos.com with information about the event.