The idea of setting a special time for Americans to learn about black history began in 1926 from educator . Concerned about lack of awareness about accomplishments of African-Americans, Woodson, the son of former slaves, set aside a week for students to learn about people who received scant attention in history books. Since 1976, every U.S. president has designated February as Black History Month. Other countries, including Canada and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating black history.
Here are 15 events you can attend this month to learn about black history:
SATURDAY, FEB. 4
2 p.m. | St. Louis County Library
A performance involving the history culture, language and creation of three dance styles: West African, Jazz Swing and Hip Hop. Presented by Beyond Measure Dance Theater. All ages.
SUNDAY, FEB. 5
1 p.m. | St. Louis Art Museum
The museum will screen films starring, directed, or produced by African-Americans. $5 public and free for members.
MONDAY, FEB. 6
7 p.m. | St. Louis County Library Headquarters
An author talk with Kaitlyn Greenidge. The novel explores of America's failure to find a language to talk about race.
SATURDAY, FEB. 11
11 a.m. - 4 p.m | St. Louis Public Library - Schlafly Branch
Panel discussion on the "Decline of Black Education," followed by a community fair with representatives from local colleges and a step performance by a Greek organization.
2 p.m. | St. Louis County Library - Indian Trails Branch
Join more than a million readers nationally to celebrate African-American literature. Bring your own book or borrow one of ours.
3 p.m. | St. Louis County Library - Natural Bridge Branch
Pinx Academy of Dance presents a Katherine Dunham-style youth performance.
SUNDAY, FEB. 12
12 p.m. | St. Louis Art Museum
The museum will screen films starring, directed, or produced by African-Americans. $5 public and free for members.
2 p.m. | St. Louis Central Library
In addition to Wilmore's appearance, library branches will hold programs throughout the month of February, focusing the theme, 鈥淭he Crisis in Black Education.鈥�
FRIDAY, FEB. 17
7 p.m. | St. Louis County Library - Lewis and Clark Branch
Saxophonist and songwriter, Rod Tate performs smooth, contemporary, worship jazz and R&B. Also featuring Love Jones the Band, performing a variety of music.
7:30 p.m. | Powell Hall
The concert will celebrate African-American culture and traditions that have influenced the history of St. Louis and cities around the world.
SATURDAY, FEB. 18
1 p.m. | St. Louis County Library - Jamestown Bluffs Branch
A performance from the dance troupe Gentlemen of Vision.
SUNDAY, FEB. 19
1 p.m. | St. Louis Art Museum
The museum will screen films starring, directed, or produced by African-Americans. $5 public and free for members.
THURSDAY, FEB. 23
6 p.m. | St. Louis County Library - Headquarters
Educators Stefan Bradley and De Nichols lead a conversation and art about challenges victories African-Americans face.
6:30 p.m. | St. Louis County Library - Headquarters
Bobby Norfolk shares the story of a slave turned hero, along with other tales of ordinary people taking extraordinary risks in the name of freedom.
SATURDAY, FEB. 25
6 p.m. | St. Louis County Library - Lewis & Clark Branch
Program features recording artist Eneazer Blissett Layne and Pastor David Catron, a St. Louis area musician and singer. The New Mount Zion choir will also perform, along with other special guests. Light refreshments will follow the program.
TUESDAY, FEB. 28
7 p.m. | St. Louis County Library - Indian Trails Branch
Kunama Mtendaji drums, sings, dances and tells stories from the United States, Africa, Brazil and the Caribbean.
