More than 800 people made their way to the Arlington Public Library Southeast Branch on Sunday, February 21, 2016, to celebrate African-American history and culture.
The library's fifth Black History Month Festival featured music, film, dance, discussion, and more, with a dozen community partners participating in the event.
The day's activities began with a screening and discussion of the film Freedom Summer, hosted by Tarrant County College's Ruthann Geer, which was followed by a performance by the TCC SE Jazz Combo.
Musical performances featuring spiritual and traditional African music were provided by Ashworth Elementary second graders, Cornerstone Baptist Children's Choir, and Household of Faith Arlington. Dance performances were provided by Step by Step Dance Studio and Ousley Junior High Step Team. Household of Faith provided snacks and water for attendees.
Librarian David Jackson has coordinated the festival for the library each year and said that the event would not be possible without the community partnerships that showcase the many elements of African-American culture and history.
"The performances by our partners manage the impressive task of entertaining and educating people," Jackson said. "Patrons left the program saying they had fun and that they were inspired to learn more."
Cheri Colbert, Animal Services Volunteer Administrator, acted as emcee and kept the crowd on their toes between performances. Between recognizing winners of the art and essay contest for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. "Advancing the Dream Celebration 2016", and the winners of the Animal Services Heritage Team Contest, Colbert quizzed many of the younger attendees on their knowledge of black history.
Jackson said that the variety of activities available and the wide range of people in attendance make the festival a great way to enhance community connections among individuals and organizations.
"Black History Month Festival is about people," Jackson said. "It's about stories, history, culture, memories, and so many other things, and it's a privilege for us to help share those things in the Arlington community."
Black History Month
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