“Inspiring Journeys: African American Histories” will be held on Feb. 28 at the Los Angeles Central Library. (photo courtesy of the L.A. Public Library)
The Los Angeles Public Library is hosting the second annual “Inspiring Journeys: African American Histories” series to celebrate the rich and multi-faceted accomplishments of the community.
Throughout February, celebrate Black history with free programs for all ages at branch libraries throughout Los Angeles featuring storytelling, workshops, arts activities and community conversations. The month concludes with “Inspiring Journeys: African American Histories,” an in-person event on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at the Los Angeles Central Library, 630 W. Fifth St.
“We are so pleased to provide these immersive experiences of storytelling and performances to celebrate African American History Month, and the contributions of Black Angelenos throughout the city,” City Librarian John F. Szabo said.
Through documenting oral history, providing historically accurate portrayals, offering contemporary dance and compelling workshops to help uncover your family’s lineage, the series includes something for everyone. Program highlights include “CommUnity: Your Archive, Your Legacy,” an oral history workshop focused on preserving community memory. Learn how to identify meaningful moments, record them with confidence and preserve them for the future. Also, try a hands-on activity using an oral history backpack to start a project, and finish with a screening of a completed oral-history project. For information, visit lapl.org/community.
The Charles Reese Experience honors James Baldwin through a performance drawing on the Harlem Renaissance and mid-20th-century Black thought, blending history and art to explore identity, truth and resistance. For information, visit charlesreeseexperience .com/speakersbureau.
The book “Making Black Los Angeles” features Dr. Marne L. Campbell, who connects personal narratives to the history of early African American families and communities who shaped life in Los Angeles. Tommy the Clown and Crew close the event with a high-energy performance celebrating Black Los Angeles through movement, music and youth expression. As the originator of clown dancing and krumping, Tommy reflects generations of African American cultural innovation.
Throughout February, branch libraries will also present free interactive programs for kids, teens and adults to promote engagement, expand outreach and foster connections with the African American community. The Fairfax Branch Library is located at 161 S. Gardner Ave., the Will & Ariel Durant Branch Library is located at 7140 Sunset Blvd. and the Memorial Branch Library is located at 4625 W. Olympic Blvd.
For information, visit lapl.org/african-american-history-month.
