Celebrating Black History Month in Colorado: Events and Opportunities

February marks Black History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the rich history, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans. In Colorado, the month is alive with diverse events and opportunities to engage with this important history, both in person and online. Here’s a look at what’s happening across the state.

Statewide Events: Celebrating Contributions

Colorado Humanities presents the Black History Live tour, a captivating program that highlights the significant impacts of African Americans across various fields such as art, culture, medicine, and politics. This year’s tour features living-history portrayals of historical figures like Mary Fields and York, delivered in a Chautauqua-style format. The tour will take place in multiple cities including Aurora, Cañon City, Colorado Springs, Denver, Fort Collins, Grand Junction, Greeley, Littleton, Parker, and Pueblo, making it accessible to many communities throughout the state.

Local Highlights: Spotlight on Cities

Denver: A Hub of Cultural Activities

In Denver, the Denver Public Library is a treasure trove of opportunities for both in-person and online engagement. Visitors can explore searchable digital archives and participate in events like the reception for the Black History Month Art Exhibition at the Central Library, taking place on February 1. The Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library also offers year-round resources that celebrate African American history and culture, providing an enriching environment for learning.

Colorado Springs: Daily Exhibits and Tours

In Colorado Springs, the Pioneers Museum hosts free exhibits dedicated to Black history, available every day throughout February. Additionally, guided tours highlighting Black experiences in the region provide visitors with a chance to learn about local history in a personal way, connecting past and present community narratives.

Fort Collins: Exploring Local Legacy

Fort Collins invites residents to delve into the histories of its Black residents through a virtual tour that covers early settlers, civil rights leaders, housing activists, and community builders. The Colorado State University’s Black/African American Cultural Center adds to the offerings with a full schedule of events under this year’s theme, “Woven Roots: 100 Years of Commemoration, Lifetimes of the African Diaspora.” This theme not only acknowledges the past but also emphasizes the ongoing narrative of the African diaspora.

Engaging Online: Learning from Home

For those who prefer to celebrate from the comfort of their homes, several national institutions provide a wealth of resources. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture is a standout with its array of online programs, talks, and educational resources suitable for all ages. Throughout February, these platforms allow anyone interested to engage with African American history in meaningful ways.

Additional Resources and Community Engagement

Apart from organized events, numerous resources are available for individuals looking to deepen their understanding or participate in Black History Month celebrations:

• Soundboard Newsletter: Subscribe for weekly updates on music news, presale codes, ticket giveaways, and more—delivered free every Thursday morning.

• Concert Calendar: Stay informed about hundreds of concerts happening along the Front Range.

• Self Serve: This is a unique opportunity to submit song requests for a new daily request show.

• Countdowns: Check out the rankings of your favorite songs from recent music countdowns.

• Become a Member: Join a thriving community of music lovers through the Colorado Sound member initiative.

From educational exhibits to community celebrations, Black History Month in Colorado presents a rich tapestry of activities that honor the contributions of Black Americans. Whether you’re attending an event in person or exploring resources online, this month is an excellent opportunity to learn, celebrate, and engage with vital aspects of American history.