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Cornelius News

Celebrating Black History Month with County Park and Rec

Feb. 7. There are many ways you can explore this part of American history in Mecklenburg County during Black History Month.

Know Your History

The program will empower youth to learn more about their past, learn about leaders who are not mentioned in mainstream media, and introduce them to different African Americans who have made major impacts on our lives today.

When: Wednesdays in February through Feb. 22, 2023, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: Naomi Drenan Recreation Center

Who: Kids ages 6-12

Registration: $2 for residents, $3 for non-residents

Local History Thursdays at ArchiveCLT sponsored by Park and Recreation 

ArchiveCLT is a black woman – owned coffee shop on Charlotte’s west side dedicated to celebrating local black culture. Join us from 1-3 p.m. every Thursday in February to hear from a westside icon. Enjoy a complimentary beverage, while supplies last.

When: Thursdays in February through Feb. 23, 1-3 p.m.

Where: Archive CLT

Who: Open to everyone

Registration: Free

Untold Stories of Mecklenburg County

This program brings local history to life through a discussion of the historic preservation movement both nationally and in Charlotte. After providing a brief overview of “Historic Preservation 101,” Dr. Liz Morrell of Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation will describe the County’s new Untold Stories initiative and invite participants to provide their own stories if they wish. The program will conclude with a performance of “Sweet Jenn” by artist Lakeetha Blakeney. Through this living history performance, participants will be invited into the world of an enslaved woman in the pre-emancipation South.

When: Feb. 7, 2023, 11 a.m.

Where: Mallard Creek Recreation Center

Registration: Free

When: Feb. 10, at 10 a.m.

Where: David B. Waymer Recreation Center

Registration: Free

Be BOLD! Celebrating Black Women in History

Be bold! Be fearless! Black women have done amazing things to make the world a better place and open doors for other women. We’ll explore their contributions and learn how we can be just as bold and fearless. We will create a door hanger that will serve as a reminder to walk through any door boldly and fearlessly!

When: Feb. 9,2023, 5 – 6 p.m.

Where: Southview Recreation Center

Who: Kids ages 8-16

Registration: Free

Register Here

Black History Drums for Life 

Please come out to the David B. Waymer Recreation and Senior Center as we celebrate Black history with a special presentation with Drums for Life.

When: Feb. 20, 2023, 2 – 3 p.m.

Where: David B. Waymer Recreation Center

Registration: Free

Register Here

Lawrence Orr: Chronicle of A Life Fulfilled

This film depicts the life of local icon Lawrence Orr. Orr’s contributions to Mecklenburg County include advocacy for African American land ownership in the face of segregation and access for black students to high school during a time in the County’s history when there were no high schools for African American students. He was also a leader in his church and widowed father of nine. A Q&A with the film’s director, Frederick Murphy, will follow the screening.

When: Feb. 20, 2023, 6 p.m.

Where: Tyvola Senior Center; a Q&A with the film’s director, Frederick Murphy, will follow the screening.

Registration: Free

Dancing Through Black History

Why do we dance? Step into this program to find out how social dances started for enslaved Africans and how they continue today as an expression of identity and freedom. Participants will learn how to do dances from the past and connect them to dances of this generation.

When: Feb. 23, 2023, 5-6 p.m.

Where: Southview Recreation Center

Who: Ages 6 – 17

Registration: Free

Register here

Black History Month Fashion Show 

When: Feb. 24, 2023, 4 – 6 p.m.

Where: Eastway Regional Recreation Center

Who: Ages 55+

Registration: Free

Register Here

Black History Bingo/Trivia

Please come out to the David B. Waymer Recreation as we celebrate Black history with bingo and trivia!

When: Feb. 27, 2023, 2 – 3 p.m.

Where: David B. Waymer Recreation Center

Registration: Free

Register Here