Community Corner
Worcester 2020 Black History Month Events
From Worcester bike racer Major Taylor to book recommendations, there are plenty of Black History Month events in Worcester in 2020.
WORCESTER, MA — Worcester kicked off Black History Month on Saturday with a celebration of Jackie Robinson at Worcester State University with the Worcester Red Sox. But there are plenty more events to come this month.
Here's a rundown of Black History Month events from the city of Worcester:
Feb. 13, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Major Taylor, “The Worcester Whirlwind"
Worcester Senior Center, 128 Providence St.
Lynne Tolman, president of the Major Taylor Association, will present an illustrated talk on Major Taylor, “The Worcester Whirlwind.” Learn the story of the 1899 world cycling champion’s remarkable life on and off the racetracks of the world at the turn of the 20th century and how the legacy of this African American pioneer is shaping cycling—and Worcester—today. Please register for this program by calling 508-799-1232. (The snow date for this event is Thursday, February 27.)
Feb. 20, 3 to 5 p.m.
Cultural Hour: A Celebration of Worcester’s Black History
City Hall, Levi Lincoln Chamber, 455 Main St.
This event will highlight and document the first people of color to become officers for the Worcester Police Department. Relatives and colleagues will provide oral histories and a photo presentation of each officer. Photos will be provided by the Worcester Historical Museum’s Black History Project and will be displayed at City Hall during Black History Month. This event is presented by the City of Worcester’s Diversity and Inclusion Office, the Worcester Police Department and the Worcester Historical Museum.
Feb. 21, 2:30 p.m.
Film screening of “Through the Lens Darkly”
Worcester Public Library, 3 Salem St.
This film explores how African American communities have used the camera as a tool for social change from the invention of photography to the present.
Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m.
Oh, Glory! Song Recital by James Dargan
All Saints Episcopal Church, 10 Irving St.
This musical journey invokes the spirit of the five great Black musicians, inspiring the fight for social justice and equality.
Feb. 25, 7:15 to 8:30 p.m.
Discussion of “The Color Purple”
Worcester Public Library, 3 Salem St.
The “Great American Read Book Club” will be reading “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker during the month of February. The book club will meet on February 25. Each registrant will receive a free copy of the book.
Black History Month Book Recommendations
The Worcester Public Library will also feature Black History Month book recommendations on its blog and monthly “Reading Round-up” email.
