Black History Month in Flint & Genesee

February marks National Black History Month in the United States – a month honoring the history and achievements of Black Americans. In Flint & Genesee, there are some longstanding events in the community that locals and visitors can enjoy. Additionally, local institutions are hosting events or exhibitions that are themed around the month.

Here are some of the many options to celebrate Black History Month this year in Flint & Genesee.

Flint Institute of Arts

Now through April 14, Revolutionary Times brings together art from Detroit native Mario Moore focusing on American history and its connections to the present. With challenging themes that confront issues of race, the works posit the modern issues of the United States with historical issues the nation is still coming to terms with.  

FIM Flint Repertory Theatre

The Flint Repertory Theatre (Flint Rep) will be presenting the play ‘Into the Side of a Hill’ until Feb. 18 which takes place at a historically Black university in 2004 and tells the story of six fraternity brothers preparing for a homecoming step show. This play is part of the Flint Rep’s New Works Festival and features issues of mental health, friendship, war, and toxicity and shows the strains to the friendships that push these men to their limits.

The New McCree Theatre

The New McCree Theatre will be presenting the play ‘The Saints of Saint John’s Street’ through Feb. 24, telling the story of a down-on-their-luck baseball team learning about life, and the game of baseball, as Black kids growing up in the 1950’s.

Greater Flint Arts Council

For February, the Greater Flint Arts Council presents the African American Artists of Michigan All Media Exhibition. The gallery will be filled with African American artists from all over Michigan as they reveal themselves and their view of the world around them in several mediums.

Flint Institute of Music

During February, the Flint Institute of Music will have some wonderful entertainment lined up. On Feb. 21 is Flint Under the Stars: Jazz featuring Roger Jones & Higher Calling. Under the stars of the FIM Capitol Theatre, this event features local artists and benefits KidsTix, a program that provides free admission to live performances for kids and their families. Jones, a native of Flint, has performed professionally since 1989.

Feb. 23 will be the Flint School of Performing Arts (FPSA) production: FPSA Celebrates Black History Month. Students in the FPSA will all come together to perform the works of Black composers and writers. With music, theatre, and dance, they will present traditional spirituals, spoken word, and contemporary songs in celebration of Black History Month.

Genesee District Library

On Feb. 22, the Genesee District Library will offer Black History in American Music, a hands-on interactive musical experience with authentic African instruments. The event will be held in the Carman-Ainsworth Senior Center.

For more Black History Month offerings or to explore what else there is to do in Flint & Genesee check their calendar of events.