Cuban Chef Wheeler del Torro Invites Portsmouth to Celebrate Black History Month

February 1st is the start of Black History Month, and Cuban-born celebrity chef Wheeler del Torro is bringing people together to celebrate with The Afrocubanismo Project, a soul food themed popup. “I look forward to his tour every year,” says Leslie Phillips, who attended an event in Boston last fall. “It is a chance to meet new people and have fun.”

Black History Month is a yearly celebration during the month of February to pay tribute to the centuries of African Americans who overcame adversity in the acquisition of citizenship status in the United States. It is additionally intended to honor the pivotal role that African Americans have played in the history and culture of North America. The honor was first written into law in 1976 by President Gerald R. Ford.

According to Pew Research, African Americans are currently the fourth largest racial group in the United States. In the face of historical race relations, however, African American contributions to society are often forgotten. In response, Chef del Torro will be touring the East Coast in February, bringing the residents of cities together in the spirit of building community. “Growing up in Cuba, people gathered together to learn, laugh, and connect over food. I’m just carrying on the tradition. People from all walks of life need to get together now more than ever.”

On February 25th, Chef del Torro will be at the Seacoast African American Cultural Center in Portsmouth for an exclusive evening of storytelling and soul food. Guests are invited to mingle over culinary surprises from Cuba. Please contact Catherine Miller at 781-222-3966 with any questions, and for information on ordering tickets.

Additional Information

History of Black History Month: http://www.history.com/topics/black-history/black-history-month

Pew Research: http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2016/03/31/10-demographic-trends-that-are-shaping-the-u-s-and-the-world/

Information Wheeler del Torro: www.wheelerdeltorro.com