While the history, fashion, food, and music of African Americans is present year-round, February is regarded as Black History Month to highlight the vibrancy of African culture and hardships of the community.
According to the Library of Congress, historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson, founder of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History- today, the organization is recognized as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History- selected February for Black History Month because of the birthdays of two prominent figures in African American history, Abraham Lincoln, and Frederick Douglas.
The U.S observes Black History Month in various ways. Locally speaking, Toms River’s effort to celebrate Black History Month is evident through the upcoming events scattered throughout the town.
Ocean County College presents United We Stand, a visual production that focuses on the adversity the African American community endured and overcame. Live music will also accompany the presentation. United We Stand is a free event at OCC in the Grunin Center Black Box Theatre on February 24 at 11AM.
Moreover, the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch is hosting a celebration for Black History Month on February 17 at 12PM. The celebration includes savory foods and live music.
In a press release by the Ocean County Library Toms River Branch, the event includes music by Rhonda Denét and the Silver Fox Songs Trio. The music honors genres jazz and gospel, which originated in African American communities.
The event is open to the public and requires registration at https://bit.ly/3TFC1ZF .
Make an effort to join Ocean County College or Ocean County Library Toms River Branch in honoring Black History Month by learning of the impact African Americans have had on the country while indulging in rich food and live music.
