Black History Month events in Detroit and Metro Detroit are still happening until the end of February. Art/the arts are a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the rich storytelling of Detroit’s history and African culture. Musical arts and exhibits are often on display/show to give people plenty of opportunity to visit more than once, which often includes viewings for the public extending beyond the month of February. The deep-rooted celebration of Black Americans is especially significant in the city of Detroit because it’s the first authenticated African American Heritage Destination in the world by the Travel Professionals of Color.
Visitors and locals of all ages gain strength and inspiration from the annual recognition of the challenges faced from racial injustices throughout history. Americans as a whole are able to appreciate these contributions that have shaped American history.
Detroitisit rounded up a fantastic list of Black History Month events in Detroit to leave you with a new outlook heading into March and the rest of the year.
BLUES FOR AN ALABAMA SKY-DETROIT PUBLIC THEATRE
Dates: Now-March 3, 2024
Written by Detroit native Pearl Cleage, explore the dynamic characters in the one-of-a-kind play, Blues For An Alabama Sky. You’ll dive into the world of the Harlem Renaissance and its decline during the Great Depression. Economic struggles and friendship battles are broad themes woven throughout the story’s artistic community. Reproductive rights and homophobia are also conflicts that resonate with today’s debates. The play is on view at the Detroit Public Theatre. Tickets are $47. Click HERE to view the website for showtimes and to purchase tickets.
Location: Detroit Public Theatre, 3960 Third Ave., Detroit
THE SECRET SOCIETY OF TWISTED STORYTELLERS-SOUTHFIELD PUBLIC
LIBRARY
Date & Time: Friday, February 23 at 6 p.m.
This list of Black History Month events in Detroit and nearby comes with a little twist! Get ready for another year of fun and real, live stories. Hosted by Satori Shakoor, this year’s show features Emeline King, Monica Morgan, Rodney Pearson, and Viakim Royster-Weary. You’ll want to get there promptly at 6 p.m. for a 45 minute Pre-glow meet and greet session with the performers! The actual performance is from 7 – 9 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person and are available for purchase in person or online anytime (must be purchased in advance). Click HERE to purchase tickets and learn more.
Location: 26300 Evergreen Rd., Southfield
EXPLORE THE MAGIC OF BLACK CINEMA AT THE DETROIT INSTITUTE OF ARTS
Dates: February 4 – June 23, 2024
The seemingly endless list of Black History Month events in Detroit always makes room for something eye-opening at the DIA. In case you’d like to catch another film or missed the memo about the new exhibition that began at the beginning of this month, then explore “Regeneration: Black Cinema 1898-1971”. You’ll better understand the historical impact & legacy of American film through the lens of Black people. The exhibition is running a continuum at the Detroit Film Theatre with a series of films highlighting Black cinema history. Click HERE to view the DIA website for more information.
CHARLES H. WRIGHT MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY EXHIBITS
This exciting list of Black History Month events in Detroit to end the month wouldn’t be complete without mentioning more opportunities and reasons to visit The Wright Museum. Bring the family along for more engaging experiences currently on view at The Wright Museum. See something new and enlightening with two photography exhibits, “The Audacity to Thrive” (Feb. 2, 2024-July 7, 2024) and “Paths to Freedom” (Feb. 2, 2024-July 7, 2024). There’s also a new open gallery called “And Still We Rise”, a permanent exhibition that dives into the life of Judge Damon Keith. Click HERE to view the website for more information.
Location: 315 E. Warren Ave., Detroit
‘UNDEFEATED’, A MONTH-LONG BHM LECTURE FROM FORD FIELD
What’s better than attending a Black History Month event in Detroit? Equally as enriching, you’re free to tune in each day for this daily video series. The city of Detroit office of Arts, Culture, and Entrepreneurship (Detroit ACE) is featuring speeches, panels and interviews that highlight the artistry and Black in Detroit. Moreover, the series takes you into the musical impacts like jazz and gospel as well as the influential architecture and comedy. This is a great opportunity to feel closer with family and the community. Tune in with Detroit ACE Monday through Friday to view each segment.
Location: 5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit
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