Celebrating Black History Month

February 6, 2023

Official recognition of Black History Month started with a proclamation from President Gerald Ford 47 years ago, to honor the many accomplishments and contributions Black Americans have made to American society. It's a time to rejoice, reflect, and remember. Black history is American history.

The theme of this year's Black History Month, "Black Resistance," explores how African Americans have resisted historic and ongoing oppression, in all forms.

"This country was established upon the profound but simple idea that all people are created equal and should be treated equally throughout their lives. It is an idea America has never fully lived up to, but it is an idea we have never fully walked away from either," said President Biden in his 2023 Black History Month Proclamation.

Over the next 28 days, cities and towns across Connecticut will hold events to honor Black History Month, among them:

  • A screening of "Selma" at the Ridgefield Playhouse on February 8
  • Martin Luther King, Jr convocation lecture on February 9 at Fairfield University
  • Urban League of Greater Hartford's annual Black History Month Celebration on Feb. 9 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford
  • Celebrations of African music in Enfield on February 15
  • African Diasporic Drumming at East Hartford Library on February 16
  • The Hartford Yard Goats will be hosting a Black Business Expo on February 16, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the stadium in Hartford.

Find other great events across the state by clicking HERE.

Every day, not just this month, we should take time to learn more about Black history. Stand up against injustice. Offer support. Speak out.