February is an especially eventful month where we celebrate holidays like Lunar New Year, Valentine’s Day, and even Groundhog Day.
It is also Black History Month, a time to recognize the Black leaders, artists, makers, and movers throughout history who strove towards representation and visibility. While special emphasis is put on these stories this month, it’s on all of us to recognize these contributions all year round.
Read on to find ways to get connected and educated around our city.
🎨 See
Black History Month Exhibit | Thursday, Feb. 16 + Friday, Feb. 17 | Times vary | Roots Community Health Center, 1898 The Alameda | Free | Learn about the accomplishments of Black pioneers, presented by Ujima Adult & Family Services.
🎤 Listen
STAND! 2023 | Friday, Feb. 17 | 7-9 p.m. | School of Arts and Culture at the Mexican Heritage Plaza, 1700 Alum Rock Ave. | Hear from four local leaders in San Jose’s art community discuss this year’s theme: “The Intersection of Arts, Social Justice, and Activism.”
Well-RED | Tuesday, Feb. 14 | 7 p.m. | Works/San José, 38 S. Second St. | Free | Hear from Tureeda Mikell, a published author, poet, and storyteller who has just completed her residency at the Museum of the African Diaspora.
🎟️ Gather
The Cookout | Saturday, Feb. 18 | 1-6 p.m. | Backesto Park, 551 N. 13th St. | Free | Browse art from 30+ Black creatives, dance to live performances, and enjoy lawn games and activities.
Sonic Sunset | Sunday, Feb. 19 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Nirvana Soul, 315 S. First St. | $20 | Celebrate Black History Month with performances by local DJs, brunch from Chefmommy408, and mimosas.
Cook and Chat: Live and In Person | Tuesday, Feb. 28 | 5:30-7 p.m. | Roots Community Health Center, 1898 The Alameda | Free, registration required | Get a demo of a warm meal from community member and health advocate Ms. Crystal Calhoun, a.k.a “The Dancing Afro Lady.”
📖 Learn
The Bridge | Thursday, Feb. 16 + Friday, Feb. 24 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | History Park, 635 Phelan Ave. | Free | Explore Black history and culture through the principles of Kwanzaa and wellness recovery action planning (WRAP).
African American History in Verse: Author Talk with Marilyn Nelson | Thursday, Feb. 16 | 6:30-7:30 | Virtual, registration required | Free | Enjoy an evening of poetry and conversation with the award-winning author.