The City of Petersburg is sponsoring several activities throughout the month of February in its First Annual Black History Month Series. Journey by bus to explore the historic path of the Freedom Rider. Contemplate life’s decisions as seen through the eyes of our youth. Engage in discussion around interracial marriage during the civil rights era. Enjoy melodious sounds of choral, instrumental, classical and jazz music. These mostly free events will honor and explore Petersburg’s rich African American experience through nearly 400 years of history, heritage and culture. A complete listing of seminars, movies, tours and concerts is attached. Several downtown restaurants are offering discount dining coupons to those attending events at Union Train.
The City is also recognizing prominent African Americans from Petersburg, including Joseph Jenkins Roberts (first president of Liberia); Joseph B. Jefferson (songwriter/musician - hits include Mighty Love performed by The Spinners); Trez Songz (R&B/Hip Hop star); Blair Underwood (film & TV actor); Afemo Omilami (film and TV actor); Marva Hicks (TV actress); Moses Malone (basketball great); Mark West (basketball great), Kendall Langford (St. Louis Rams) and Rick Smith (NFL coach). Additional contributors to the First Annual Black History Month Series include Petersburg Public Library System, Virginia State University, National Endowment for the Humanities, The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, and Legacy Media Institute. For more information, please call 804-733-2430.