Kalamazoo- Many people will take the opportunity in the month of February to celebrate the lives, sacrifices and legacy of ancestors past and present. Black History Month, also known as African-American History Month in America, has become an annual monthly observance in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Carter G. Woodson referenced as the “father of black history”. In February 1926 Woodson announced the celebration of “Negro History Week”, which is considered the precursor of Black History Month. Many organizations and businesses will host Black History venues and activities. Click links for more information about event.
Kalamazoo, MI-Martin Luther King Jr.,an icon of the Civil Rights Movement, power speaker and public leader was a great man. Katori Hall, American playwright explores Dr. King as a man. Taking place at the Lorraine Motel,in Memphis, Tennessee.The reimagination of the events the night before the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. King returns to his room at the Lorraine Motel from delivering a speech earlier that day When a maid arrives with with news and King is made aware of his r his importance to the movement and realizations of himself as just a man, but a purpose that belongs with so many.
The show stars Tanisha Pyron and Kenajuan Bentley, as the maid, Camae, and King, respectively. Both are alumni of Western Michigan University’s theater department. Bentley is a professional actor in Los Angeles and has worked with the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Pyron is a member of Face Off and is completing her graduate degree in acting.
Opening night is January 14 on Kalamazoo College’s campus. It will be held at Nelda Balch Festival Playhouse. The show runs from January 14-17 at 8pm and January 17 at 2pm. For more information visit https://reason.kzoo.edu/festivalplayhouse/
Majyck Radio-Kalamazoo, MI- Dozens of concerned citizens gathered at a local venue in Kalamazoo to discuss and engage in conversations intended to deconstruct the history and foundation of systemic barriers created by white male patriarchy.
Taking a macro look at the micro level injustices that plague not only our nation, but issues and systems here in SW Michigan and Kalamazoo. Environmental Justice and present day injustices were topics that brought out emotions and plenty of dialogue.
Participants were able to “break out” into groups, depending on their topic interest and discuss in depth root causes and possible solutions that could be done collectively and individual self interests.
Angeles and has worked with the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Pyron is a member of Face Off and is completing her graduate degree in acting.
