Black History Month Celebration: Honoring Black Labor Through the Arts

Event Highlights:

• Affrilachian Tales With Lyn Ford: A fourth-generation Affrilachian storyteller, Lyn Ford shares the rich narratives of Black Americans in Appalachia. An acclaimed storyteller, author, and poet, Lyn brings to life the unrecognized history and culture of this unique community.
• Urban Strings Columbus: Founded in 2007, this talented group of underserved, urban African American and minority youth showcases all genres of music, including classical, R&B, hip-hop, and contemporary pieces. Urban Strings also highlights compositions by African American composers and arrangers, enriching and informing audiences with their beautiful string performances.

Additional Activities:

• Art Display: View the works of Said Oladejo-Lawal, Best in Show winner at the 2024 Upper Arlington Labor Day Arts Festival. Known for his vibrant, impressionistic style, Said’s work evokes deep emotions and bridges abstract themes like music with visual artistry.
• Interactive Art Activity: Engage in a hands-on art experience designed to inspire creativity and connection.
• Periodic Table of Black History: Explore an interactive display celebrating Black Americans’ contributions to U.S. history. This engaging activity from the Upper Arlington Public Library is suitable for all ages.
• Community Relations Committee Welcome Table: Enjoy refreshments courtesy of the Upper Arlington Community Foundation.

This celebration is made possible through a partnership between Upper Arlington Parks & Recreation and the Upper Arlington Public Library, with generous support from the Upper Arlington Community Relations Committee and the Upper Arlington Community Foundation.