Black History Is American History

By Laydell Wood Harper/Tell Us Detroit

DETROIT, MI (Tell Us Det) - There is something for every taste during Black History Month…..Music, theater, movies, drama, art and special religious services. It’s not only enjoyable, it’s educational. It is a time each year during the month of February to learn something new that is an important part of American History.

An exciting event that you won’t want to miss is the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) Friends of African and African American Art (FAAAA) auxiliary’s annual Alain Locke Award presentation. It is a “one of a Kind” event during Black History Month that will be held on February 9, at 3 pm at the DIA.

For those of you that are not familiar with Alain Locke, here’s yet another important piece of African American history, an avid art collector Locke was best known for his writings about the Harlem Renaissance. Unofficially called the “Father of the Harlem Renaissance,” it was his philosophy and passion that motivated and energized the Movement. A 1907 graduate of Harvard University with degrees in English and philosophy, he was the first African American Rhodes Scholar.

Each year there is a local and international honoree. The 2014 local honorees will be Roy and Maureen Roberts. The International Art Award honoree will be Sharon F. Patton, Ph.D. who will lecture on Romare Bearden.

Roy and Maureen Roberts are well-known philanthropists in the areas of the arts, culture and education. The DIA has named a gallery of contemporary African American Art in recognition of their generous gift to the museum. Their support confirms the important role art plays in enhancing lives in the community. The event will be held in the lecture Hall at the DIA. For more information call (313) 833-8604.

The Charles H. Wright Museum will open its doors with pride, reverence, and a menu of past and present insight that could only enhance your thirst for knowledge and art. Throughout the Month of February there are a host of events scheduled at the CHWMAAH.

“Praise Song for Mandela,” a celebration of the life of the South African Freedom Fighter and statesman will be celebrated by the Inkster Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History on Sunday, February 9, 2014 at the CHWMAAH at 4 PM.

Two great historic organizations joining together to honor those that have made significant contributions as leaders in the anti-apartheid movement; The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is the world's largest institution dedicated to the African American experience!

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. a well established, private, not-for-profit organization whose purpose is to provide assistance and support through established programs in local communities. Founded 101 years ago at Howard University, the major programs of the sorority are based on the organization’s Five Point Programmatic Thrust, which includes International Awareness and Involvement.

"Though 'Praise Song for Mandela' had been planned now for several months, his passing in December makes its timing that much more poignant," said Juanita Moore, President and CEO of The Wright Museum. "President Mandela's life was an example for us all, and it's most fitting that we honor him this Black History Month."

Dr. Charles G. Adams, pastor of Hartford Memorial Baptist Church and a leading anti-apartheid activist in his own right will be the keynote speaker for the event. One of the most prominent ministers in the nation, Dr. Adams has a long list of accomplishments, but the most relished is senior pastor of Hartford Church. He is considered an expert in urban revitalization and leadership, and is well known for his role in the community economic development in northwest Detroit. Also featured on the program will be performances from nationally-known poets Gloria House and Jessica Care Moore and the Detroit School of Arts’ Boys Choir.

The event will also honor the contributions of ten Detroiters who were recognized leaders in the anti-apartheid movement: Dr. Adams, Margaret Baylor, Akua Budu-Watkins, Dr. Gloria House, The Hon. Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, Shahida Mausi, Christine Root, The Hon. Audley Kano Smith, The Hon. Virgil Smith and Dr. David Wiley.

“It’s very important for us to remember that it took the work and sacrifices of people throughout the world to end apartheid,” Delta Sigma Theta Inkster Alumnae Chapter President Soraya Williams Farver said. “Detroit’s activists were especially critical to that effort and we want to make sure they get their due.”

Tickets are $15 and are available for purchase at the Wright Museum, by phone at 800-838-3006 or online at TheWright.org. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Adelaide Tambo School for the Disabled in Soweto, South Africa.