Farley Santos

February marks Black History Month, a period dedicated to honoring the significant achievements of the Black community and confronting the enduring impact of systemic racism. This year's theme, "African Americans and the Arts," celebrates the profound contributions of Black Americans across various artistic disciplines and their lasting impact on our national culture.

In Connecticut, pivotal moments in Black history are woven into the state's fabric. Notably, Canterbury was the site of the country's inaugural boarding school for young Black girls, the Canterbury Female Boarding School. Torrington was the birthplace of the staunch abolitionist John Brown. During the Civil War, the 29th Colored Regiment, an all-Black unit from Fair Haven, were among the first to march into Richmond, Virginia, after its abandonment by the Confederate Army. Discover more about Connecticut's rich Black heritage by clicking here.  

Thanks to the tireless work of the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus and other colleagues in the General Assembly back in 2019, Connecticut became the first state to require public schools to include Black and Latino history in their curriculums. Black history is American history, and this law ensures that the stories and triumphs of Black Americans will be taught throughout the school year. 

I encourage you to take some time to celebrate and learn more about Black history, locally and throughout America. Connecticut is home to several organizations that honor and celebrate the Black experience, such as the Amistad Center for Art & Culture in Hartford, and the Ruby and Calvin Fletcher African American Museum in Stratford.
 
Click here to find more places that honor and support Black history and culture in our state.