Celebrating Black History Month

As we continue into the first full week of Black History Month, I'd like to share with you some of the meaningful programming taking place across Dallas to honor the lives and accomplishments of some of our nation's most consequential leaders. From community activists and thought provokers, to industry trailblazers and political giants, I am proud to say that Black history is American history.

- See Yellowman at the South Dallas Cultural Center between Feb. 1-11. This powerful two-person play explores colorism and the destructiveness of self-hatred.

- Uncover Dallas' rich history with the DFW African American Tours every Saturday through the month of February, beginning Feb. 3. This three-hour tour will explore more than 20 historic sites and trace the African American experience following the Civil War through the formation of Deep Ellum and how the Southern Dallas migration changed the face of the city forever.

- Attend a free community cooking class at the Juanita Craft Recreation Center every Tuesday, Feb. 6-March 13. Learn the rich history and healthy roots of traditional African cuisine, learn basic skills and get hands-on experience preparing home-cooked meals.

- Learn about the first African American to be appointed to the Supreme Court at the Bishop Arts Theatre Center's production of Thurgood by George Stevens Jr. See this dramatic retelling of Thurgood Marshall's life from Feb. 7-25.

- Head to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum for the 3rd Annual Art Past and Present: From a Black Artist's Perspective, a special art exhibit on display from Feb. 9-22.

- Take the kids on a family field trip to the Commemorative Air Force on Feb. 10 to see the free RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit. The exhibit teaches young people about the Tuskegee Airmen and provides opportunities to get hands-on with history.

- Explore the free Affirmations gallery exhibit at the South Dallas Cultural Center, on display from Feb. 10-March 24. The exhibit features work from female artists of color and examines themes of identity, faith, religion and the soul.

- Celebrate Black History Month by attending a panel discussion on leadership at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center on Feb. 16. The panel will feature some of Dallas' most distinguished businessmen and focus on how their backgrounds shaped their careers.

- See the Dallas Black Dance Theatre's Cultural Awareness series at the Wyly Theatre on Feb. 16-18. The performance combines dance, poetry and a live Second Line brass band to honor the 12-year-anniversary of Hurricane Katrina.

- Catch a classic black film at the Texas Theatre as it presents its Black Cinematheque Filmmaker Series throughout the month of February. Enjoy movies like Boyz n the Hood on Feb. 10, Super Fly on Feb. 17, Malcolm X on Feb. 24 and more. Admission is only $1.

- Enjoy a free concert at the South Dallas Cultural Center on Feb. 17. The South Dallas Concert Choir presents their Annual Black History Program highlighting traditions of black culture.

- Celebrate with Dallas native Erykah Badu at Erykah Badu Presents: Bless you Bruja! Another Badu Birthday at the Bomb Factory on Feb. 23. Badu's annual birthday jam features her performing live, surprises and special guests.

I hope you find some time to attend one of these insightful events and join me in celebrating Black History Month.