Happenings around Central and Western New York that may pique your interest:
Virtual/Hybrid
2/21 - Introduction to Antiracism Practice – 540WMain
With the surge of institutional demand for DEAI Education and societal debate around Critical Race Theory, it is important that we continue to think critically about our individual and collective roles in perpetuating and dismantling racism. Through engaging with Black-authored texts on antiracism, critical dialogues, popular cultural examples, and other media, this course will inform and encourage participants in their own practicing and advocacy of antiracism.
2/22: “Restore, Reclaim, and Reform Black Midwifery” Hybrid Presentation - Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center
Did you know there are only 2% Black Certified Professional Midwives and 6% Black Certified Nurse Midwives? Did you know out of the 384 birth centers in the United States that only about 12 are Black-owned? When we speak of the maternal mortality rate, it refers to deaths due to complications from pregnancy or childbirth, and Black mothers are dying at four times the rate of their white counterparts. So, what are some solutions? In “Restore, Reclaim, and Reform Black Midwifery”, Barbara Verneus will share some realistic ways we can participate in further protecting one of the oldest professions/vocations on the planet.
Rochester
2/19: Model Casting Call for In Control’s Teen Fashion Show – 250 Cumberland St., Suite 234
In Control, PPCWNY’s teen education program, is seeking models to walk in its popular Teen Fashion Show. Interested folx aged 13-18 are invited to audition any time during the Casting Call, to be held 1-4 p.m. All experience levels are welcome. No specific dress code is required. Please call 585-463-2452 with questions.
2/18 & 2/19: Black Excellence in Arts & Culture – RMSC
The RMSC is hosting programming, activities, and events every weekend in February to celebrate Black History Month. This weekend’s events include quilting and poetry workshops and a screening of the documentary Signing Black in America.
2/25 & 2/26: Black Excellence in STEM – RMSC
The RMSC is hosting programming, activities, and events every weekend in February to celebrate Black History Month. This weekend’s events include lectures on Black innovators from Kodak and other Rochester companies and the real-life women who inspired Hidden Figures.
3/2: Afro Latin Dance Community Give Back Festival - Hyatt Regency Rochester
Learn Kizomba, Semba, Bachata, and more while raising funds for the Arts 4 All Program, Dr. Charles T. Lunsford School 19.
Syracuse
2/24: BHM Basketball Classic – SU
Black culture continues to challenge the way society views athletes, and the value of their opinions and the consistency of their actions. It has particularly challenged the United States to progress culturally, politically, and socially. Join the Black History Month Committee and Barnes Center at The Arch Recreation for an exciting Basketball Classic as we focus on this year’s theme: Black resilience.
2/26: Music and Message | Black History Month Concert: Music of Black Composers – SU
Setnor School of Music student organists and choral ensembles celebrate Black History Month with a concert of uplifting music in a variety of styles. This program features African-American spiritual settings by Moses Hogan, Rollo Dillworth, and Undine Smith Moore; anthems by David Hurd and Christopher Harris; organ solos by Florence Price and Adolphus Hailstork; and Carl Haywood’s stirring organ toccata on “We Shall Overcome.”
2/26: Tip A B!tch Drag Brunch – Wunderbar
Starring Aggy Dune, Mrs. Kasha Davis, and Twigs Vondu; hosted by Tanner Efinger. Your ticket includes buffet brunch, tea/coffee, and a show. Gluten free and vegan options available if requested in advance. This show is an 18+ event, however anyone under the age of 18 can attend if they are accompanied by an adult.
2/28: BHM: Breaking Stigma – Mental Health Matters – SU
A panel discussion to increase accessibility and awareness on mental health in Black communities. The panelists will create dialogue differentiating between the definitions and the experiences of mental health and wellness, and looking at what that looks like in the community. Join the Black History Month Committee as we invite Simone Adams, Dr. Charmain Jackman, and Douglas McNeil Reed for an enriching discussion.
Buffalo
2/21: WUFO 1080 Radio Sounds of the Civil Rights Movement – Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Library
Join Sheila L. Brown, owner of WUFO Radio Station, and Lee Pettigrew, long-time WUFO MIX1080 AM and POWER 96.5 DJ, as they share the history relating to WUFO Radio Station and the Civil Rights Movement.
2/28: Preserving, Presenting and Promoting the Legacy of African American Music – Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Library
This lecture will provide an in-depth look at the history of the Colored Musicians Club and Local 533 during the Jazz Age and beyond. Speakers are George Scott, Danny Williams, and Craig Steger.
3/10: Choir Boy - Lorna C. Hill Theatre
A portrait of male adolescent turmoil within the walls of a prestigious African American prep school. The poignant script is filled with deft observations on class, race, and sexuality.
Niagara Falls
2/18: “Heart Healthy Presentation Luncheon” by Strong Heart 2 Soul – Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center
We welcome Strong Heart 2 Soul, a local business that will be hosting a speaker series luncheon about the importance of heart health, heart failure, and ways to improve heart health.
2/18: “Niagara Renaissance: Art that Moves Our Community” – Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center
An art expo inspired by the Harlem Renaissance. The Heritage Center will be showcasing six artists of different mediums to present on their work and how it correlates to the Harlem Renaissance. Catering from local Black woman-owned Black House Beignet. Harlem Renaissance attire encouraged.