Celebrating Black History Month In DC
Lifestyle
Every February, the US honors the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape the nation — and this year is no exception. Fittingly, the theme for 2022 is Black Health and Wellness, a motif that’s particularly relevant as we enter the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disproportionately affected minority communities and placed unique burdens on Black health care professionals.
Looking for ways to embrace and reflect on the spirit of the month? From lectures on Black history to pop-up shops and beyond, here are a few ideas for how to celebrate Black History Month in DC.
1. Take A History Lesson
Learn about Nathaniel “The Bush Doctor” Mathis, the Maryland-based barber-stylist and inventor who popularized Afros and cornrows, in the first installment of “Innovative Lives,” an online lecture series from the Smithsonian’s Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation. Wednesday, February 9, at 4 PM.
2. Hear From A Musical Genius
Searching for soul? Join American History Museum music curator John Edward Hasse as he reflects on the life of legendary soul musician Ray Charles and his contributions to American pop culture and music industry. Tuesday, February 15, at 6:30 PM.
3. Keep On Rollin’
Explore more than 50 images, documents, and artifacts that highlight roller skating culture through the lens of the African-American community in an installation curated by the National African African American Roller Skating Archive. Saturday, February 19, from 11 AM-4:45 PM.
4. Get A Different Perspective
Check out The Gallery O on H’s new photo exhibit, “Attacks on Democracy: Through the Lens of a Black Photojournalist.” As a DC-based photographer, Shedrick Pelt re-examines the events of January 6 and their aftermath through the perspective of Black photojournalism, while also shedding light on his experiences navigating the white-dominated photography business. Friday, February 25, at 7 PM.
5. Sample Spirited Cocktails
Craving a good cocktail? Head over to Serenata, which will host tastings from Black-owned liquor, wine, and beer brands every Tuesday this month — from Sankofa Bottling Company Gin to Life Gives You Lemons. Don’t feel like going out? Tune in for their virtual cocktail-mixing classes led by Black creatives throughout the month. Every Tuesday through February 22 from 6 PM-9PM.
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6. Keep Go-go Alive
Join Politics and Prose for a behind the scenes look at DC’s go-go scene as Chuck Brown’s former photographer Chip Py discusses his upcoming photo book, DC Go-Go: Ten Years Backstage. With more than 20 years of shooting DC bands under his belt, Py’s work is now a part of the People’s Archive at the DC Public Library and the Chuck Brown Memorial Park. Saturday, February 26, at 3 PM.
7. Catch A Show
If you’re a fan of powerful stories, you’ve come to the right place. This month, DC playwright Psalmayene will perform his autobiographical solo show, Dear Mapel, at Mosaic Theater Company. The play, which explores the effect that his father’s absence had on Psalmayene’s life, will also be available for streaming on-demand until February 27. Thursday, February 3, through Sunday, February 13, showtimes vary.
8. Pay Tribute
The National Symphony Orchestra will honor George Walker, the native Washingtonian who became the first Black composer to win the Pulitzer Prize for Music, with a performance at Howard University’s Crampon Auditorium. The group will perform compositions from Walker and Beethoven, with a special appearance from the DC composer’s son and violinist Gregory Walker. Tuesday, February 15, at 7:30 PM.
➤ See what else there is to do in DC:
