Beginning in 1976, every U.S. president has designated February as Black History Month. Black History Month is a time to celebrate Black achievement, as well as reminding the community to get involved, support, and give visibility to the people and organizations creating change.
A theme is chosen each year by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). This year’s (2023) theme is ‘Black Resistance’ focusing on the fight for “freedom, justice, and equality”; “self-determination”, and/or “social transformation.”
Looking for ways to celebrate? Here are some of the Black History Month events taking place in Greater Palm Springs. All are open to the public, inviting the community to get engaged and educated.
Palm Springs Art Museum Black History Month Kick Off and Opening Reception | Palm Springs Art Museum
When: February 2
Opening Celebration featuring the James O. Jessie Desert Highlands Drill Team and Drum Squad.
Music by DJ John Paul
Food by Comfort Food Inn
7th Annual Black History Month Cultural Appreciation Fashion Music & Art Extravaganza
When: February 4
Featuring interactive learning stations, various local vendors, live entertainment, art exhibits, performances, and more!
When: February 4 at 1:00 P.M.
This program on the Tuskegee Airmen will be presented by the United States' pre-eminent aviation artist, Stan Stokes. Stokes interviewed and painted dozens of Tuskegee Airmen for the Tuskegee Mural at the Palm Springs Air Museum, originally commissioned by The Tuskegee Airmen Foundation. Stokes will share personal stories of the Tuskegee Airmen.
INVISIBLE WARRIORS: AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN IN WORLD WAR II (Documentary Screening) | Palm Springs Air Museum
When: February 4 at 5:30 P.M.
The film is an unforgettable conversation among a diverse group of African American “Rosie the Riveters” who recount what life was really like during World War II. They are hard-working underdogs of high character who do battle and win. These patriotic pioneers share their wartime memories.
Wine and Light Hors d’oeuvres will be served by LULU of Palm Springs
When: February 4 at 5:30 P.M.
The Palm Springs Black History Committee Annual Awards Gala will be held on February 4, 2023. The Awards Gala is The Palm Springs Black History Committee's way of recognizing those individuals, groups, and local and corporate businesses who have allied or contributed to the success and achievements of African Americans and society.
BLACK HISTORY EXPRESSIONS OF COLOR AND BRILLIANCE EXHIBIT | Desert Art Center
When: February 10-12 | 10:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.
Come celebrate Black History Month with this exhibit: Expressions Of Color And Brilliance, curated by Tysen Knight, which explores the Art of three African American Artists from the Coachella Valley on their journey of self-expression, while seeking to reach out, touch, communicate and bring people together with their Art.
Honoring Black History Month with Andres Mack Wines | Bouschet
When: February 18
Honoring Black History Month with Andres Mack Wines. The line-up will include Pinot Gris, Horseshoe & Hand Grenades, New Noir, Wolf in Sheep's Clothing, and Other People's Pinot Noir.
The Untold Story of African American Architect, Robert Kennard | CAMP Theater at Hyatt Palm Springs
When: February 20 at 2:30 - 3:30 P.M.
Gail Kennard, daughter of African American architect, Robert Kennard, unveils a remarkable body of work and network of architects he worked with to create a new design aesthetic in a growing L.A. Deepen your understanding of modernism with the untold story of architect Robert Kennard, FAIA.
Caravan Through African-American History Palm Springs | Palm Springs
When: February 20 | 10:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.
This tour will introduce you to Black pioneers of the city whose talents and perseverance overcame the prejudices of earlier times.
36th Annual City of Palm Springs Black History Month Parade & Town Fair | Palm Springs
When: February 26 | 11:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.
Participate or watch as the 36th Annual Black History Month Parade will walk through Downtown Palm Springs on Palm Canyon Drive. This year's celebrity Grand Marshall will be Janeshia Adams-Ginyard and the Community Grand Marshall will be Indio City Mayor Waymond Fermon. Following the parade, the Town Fair will be held at the new city park. The fair will include live entertainment, cultural booths, food vendors and kid-friendly activities.
