February 12, 2021
After a year of protests, blatant racial injustice, and disproportionate deaths from COVID-19, there is a renewed energy powering the celebration and recognition of Black History Month.
For many, this time of celebration comes with fresh urgency and many firsts. Our nation saw its first Black, South Asian, and woman vice president sworn into office on Jan. 20. The Senate confirmed Lloyd Austin, a retired four-star Army general, to serve as the first Black defense secretary. And the Biden administration has made racial equity a key hallmark of how it will re-shape investments in the federal workforce and the public.
Manmade wetlands in South L.A. make a convincing habitat, and winter hiking trails to put on your to-do list.
Black Artists + Designers Guild presents the Obsidian Experience, a “virtual concept house” of the future designed “as an enlightened way of being and dwelling” for Black families. The designs by 23 members of the Black Artist + Designers Guild will evolve during the month at obsidianbybadg.house.
“Who I Am,” a celebration of African American Heritage, is a free Theatre West production on YouTube that features seven actor-writers sharing their personal stories and life lessons from parents and grandparents, and “what it means to be Black in America in the face of 2020’s call to action.” theatrewest.org
Santa Monica preps for Black History Month
Jan. 26, 2021 at 6:00 am
The City of Santa Monica is ready to celebrate Black History Month this February with a number of events that will be held in a COVID-conscious manner.
In 2020, city and community leaders partnered to host the inaugural “Celebrating Black Excellence Community Mixer” on the Third Street Promenade, which provided residents and tourists an opportunity to talk with others while they enjoyed treats from various vendors and a traditional West African Dance and Drum performance.
Because of COVID and the need to stay home, this year’s roster of events will be held virtually but the activities will still highlight the history, diversity and achievements of Santa Monica’s Black community, said Delana Gbenekama, Equity and Communications Coordinator for the City of Santa Monica, as she detailed the many upcoming opportunities to learn about Black history as well as the Black community’s contributions to Santa Moni