Lady Griot connects the audience to the blues with resonance, poetry and dramatic flair. West Seventh Library, 265 Oneida St.
Robert Robinson - Feb. 5, 2pm
Join acclaimed gospel and contemporary music artist Robert Robinson for a live concert at the Rondo Library. Robinson has performed with Aretha Franklin, Grammy Award winner Andrae Crouch, the Sounds of Blackness, Bobby McFerrin, Barry Manilow, Jermaine Jackson, and others. The Star Tribune called him “Pavarotti of gospel. Rondo Library. 461 N. Dale St.
Walter Mosley - Feb. 9, 7pm
Join a panel of local scholars of African American Literature to discuss the work of best-selling author Walter Mosley. Mosley is this year’s featured Givens Black Books Community Reading Campaign author. To learn more about his work and the program visit www.givens.org. Rondo Library, 461 N. Dale St.
Roxanne Givens and Frank White - Feb 10, Noon to 1pm
• Roxanne Givens, "The Founding of Minnesota’s African-American History Museum”; and
• Frank White, "They Played for the Love of the Game – Adding to the Legacy of Minnesota Black Baseball."
• Master of Ceremonies: Chris Crutchfield, Deputy Director for Community Relations and External Affairs for Ramsey County
• Spoken Word by Sheronda
@ City Hall/Courthouse - 15 W Kellogg Blvd, Saint Paul, MN (Lower Level - Room 40 A & B)
“What’s Up With the Brothers -From Marginalization to Empowerment” -, Feb. 17, Noon to 1pm
• Dr. Whitney Stewart-Harris, Executive Director, Diversity and Multiculturalism Minnesota State Colleges and Universities
• Master of Ceremonies: Councilmember Melvin Carter III
@ City Hall/Courthouse - 15 W Kellogg Blvd, Saint Paul, MN (Lower Level - Room 40 A & B)
Black History Showcase - Feb 17
Featuring spoken word, dance, and r&b from Boom Box Music Group & Mama Brenda from Chicago, IL, PYC Steppers, Jayla Anderson, The Discovery Crew, Nakia Marie, Brandon Trevon, Chantel Winn, PYC Taiko Drummers, Wise Charter School African Drum and Dance. Feb. 17, 6:30, Adult $10, Student $5. @ Capri Theater 2027 W. Broadway N. Mpls.
The Evolution of African American Music - Feb 19
Combining lecture and vocal performance, Bruce A. Henry illustrates the connection between contemporary music trends and four centuries of African American music. Sun., Feb. 19, 1:30pm, The Center for Changing Lives, 2400 Park Avenue S, Mpls. Free will offering received. Refreshments will follow the concert.
“More than a Month”- Feb. 21, 7pm
Filmmaker Shukree Hassan Tilghman sets off on a cross-country campaign to end Black History Month. His tongue-in-cheek journey explores the complexity and contradictions of relegating an entire group’s history to one month in a so-called post-racial America. A discussion will follow the film. Merriam Park Library, 1831 Marshall Ave.
Highland Park Book Club - Feb. 22, 6:45pm
Join the Highland Park Book Club for a discussion of Walter Mosley’s book, “Known to Evil.” Highland Park Library, 1974 Ford Parkway
“Walking in the Footsteps of Gordon Parks: Preserving His Legacy" February 24, 11:30am-1pm (Program 12 to 1pm, Lunch from 11:30am to 12pm)
• Robin Hickman “Walking in the Footsteps of Gordon Parks: Preserving His Legacy"
• Niece of Gordon Parks, Robin Hickman is the CEO and Executive Producer of SoulTouch Productions, a television and film production, youth mentorship and media consulting company, with a mission to make meaningful media and produce powerful social impact experiences.
• Opening Remarks by Mayor Chris Coleman.
• Proclamations by Mayor Chris Coleman, Council President Kathy Lantry, and Ramsey County Commission Chair Rafael Ortega.
• Master of Ceremonies: Deputy Mayor Paul Williams.
• Lunch will be catered by Abundant Catering. The cost of lunch is $10 and is served on a first-come, first-serve from 11:30 to 12:00 (February 24th only).
@ City Hall/Courthouse - 15 W Kellogg Blvd, Saint Paul, MN (Lower Level - Room 40 A & B
Book Discussion - Feb. 25, 2pm
Continue the discussion of Walter Mosley's work with a conversation about his recent nonfiction title: “Twelve Steps toward Political Revelation.” Arlington Hills Library, 1105 Greenbrier Street
Lou and Sarah Bellamy – Feb. 26, 2pm
Join Lou Bellamy, artistic director of Penumbra Theater, and Sarah Bellamy, Education Director, for a page-to-stage discussion of the upcoming production “The Amen Corner,” by James Baldwin. Also, actors from the company will present brief excerpts. Central Library. 90 W. Fourth St.
