Black History Month in Cumberland County

Throughout February, special arts, cultural and history events in Fort Bragg and the Communities of Cumberland County honor the contributions of African-Americans to the region, state and the nation. Here’s a snapshot of a few events happening in Cumberland County. All are FREE. Enjoy some of these wonderful cultural opportunities this month! Invite your family and friends to visit and take them to one or more!

February 1: Dancing Stories with April C. Turner -April C. Turner uses dances, stories and songs from traditional West African culture to affirm community building concepts such as working together, integrity, and perseverance. This program is a well-rounded cultural experience focusing on the strength of art to inspire, unite and educate. Held at the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex. starts at 2 pm For more information, visit www.ncdcr.gov/ncmcf.

February 10: Fayetteville’s African American Heroes - Dr. Kelli C. Walsh, Assistant Professor of Fayetteville State University, and Charles Anderson, Adjunct Professor of Methodist College, will present a look at the lives of six African-American men of distinction - Isaac Hammond, Omar Ibn Said, Lewis Leary, Hiram Revels, Charles Chesnutt and Dr. Ezekiel Ezra Smith. Held at the Headquarters Library, 300 Maiden Lane. 9 and 10:30 am. For more information, visit: www.cumberland.lib.nc.us/ccplsite/

February 15: Evidence Dance - Founded by Ronald K. Brown in 1985 and based in Brooklyn, New York, Evidence: A Dance Company focuses on the seamless integration of traditional African dance with contemporary choreography and spoken word. Held at Fayetteville State University. For more information, visit www.uncfsu.edu/arts.

Feb 23: Celebrate Black History: Local Impact - Learn about the historical impact African-Americans have had on the City of Fayetteville and surrounding areas as the Sandhills Family Heritage Association shares the rich history of the black community in Cumberland County. Held at the Bordeaux Branch of the Cumberland County Public Library and Information Center, 3711 Village Drive. Starts at 6 pm. For more information, visit: www.cumberland.lib.nc.us/ccplsite/

Through Feb 23: Black History Month Exhibit - Regional artist Charles Farrar is highlighted in a unique “wood turner” exhibition about history and art. For more information, visit www.CapeFearStudios.com

Feb 27: Red, White, Blue and Black: United States Colored Troops in North Carolina - The program will cover the contributions of black soldiers from NC who served in the Union Army during the Civil War and other U.S.C.T. troops who fought in NC. Held at the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex. For more information, visit www.ncdcr.gov/ncmcf.

Feb 28: Celebrate Black History: Step! We close out Black History Month with a step show from the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity of Fayetteville State University. Held at the Bordeaux Branch of the Cumberland County Public Library and Information Center, 3711 Village Drive. Starts at 2 pm. For more information, visit: www.cumberland.lib.nc.us/ccplsite/

Through Feb 28: Words and Pictures: Illustrated Works by Kadir Nelson - Strength, poise and beauty. Experience the works of nationally acclaimed artist Kadir Nelson. The exhibition showcases Nelson’s engaging works primarily featuring African-American subjects in this broad presentation of his award-winning works. Held at the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County. For more information, visit www.TheArtsCouncil.com.

After attending one of these events, consider touring the African American Cultural Heritage Trail. The 23 sites on this highlight the history of African-Americans in Fort Bragg Communities of Cumberland County. Download the trail at www.VisitFayettevilleNC.com/CulturalHeritageTrails

For more information on happenings in Cumberland County, head over to VisitFayettevilleNC.com.