Black History –
Many wonderful programs have been presented so far this month to educate and celebrate the cultural and historic contributions of Black Americans in building our society and country. Black American artifacts were on display on February 6 through Regina’s Popup Museum. Regina Small, a resident of Greenbelt, graciously shared her collection with city residents. Due to the Community Center staff efforts in creating a clean and safe environment, many participants were able to come out and view this wonderful, interesting collection in person.
On Sunday, February 7, Creative Arts Director Nicole DeWald arranged for an Artful Afternoon that included puppet and quilt crafts as well as puppet shows. Dirk and Azaria Joseph, a father and daughter team showed how language arts can be taught through puppetry. Schroeder Cherry (of Maryland) exhibited a historical moment in the history of the Black American struggle for equality and social justice during his segment. The father and son team of Jeghetto, Tarin Pipkins (of North Carolina) and Anthony Michael Stokes (of Texas) focused on Afro-futurism. After their presentations, the puppeteers participated in a question-and-answer session with the audience. It was a well-received event.
Drum Class
A master drum class, led by Michael Kweku Owusu, was held on Saturday, February 13. Kweku is an artist and craftsman from Accra, Ghana. Kweku was attentive to each of the students and took the time to explain correct drum techniques. Participants were of all ages and ethnicities, and all had a great time. There were some participants who just watched the lesson. Everyone appreciated Kweku’s efforts to teach the basics and have fun in the process.
Poetry Slam
Prince George’s County students used poetry to express their pain about murders of unarmed Black children, youth, men and women at the hands of police, but also expressed hope for a better future where they are judged only by the content of their character and not by the color of their skins. Marissa Michel, Prince George’s County’s 2020 Youth Poet Laureate, shared her poetry filled with images of family and memories of her grandmother from Haiti. There was a question-and-answer session after the presentations and it was evident that the audience appreciated the talents of these students, many of whom indicated that they will continue writing as they grow and mature. Some planned to study film and theater arts in college. Neville Adams, a teacher and mentor of youth poets, joined in this presentation, as well as Patrick Washington who helped organize this session. In addition, Ric Gordon, a member of Greenbelt’s Black History and Culture Committee, enabled 268 folks to see this event live-streamed. Recreation Department staff aided with technical support and Robert Goldberg-Strassler (Random Unselfish Acts of Kindness) helped the committee connect to this group.
Coming Events
Stay tuned for more upcoming and exciting programs. This coming Saturday, February 20 from 2 to 3 p.m. Enslaved Life and Labor on Maryland Plantations will be presented followed by an audience question-and-answer session. On Sunday, February 21 from 2 to 3 p.m. Female RE-Enactors of Distinction (FREED) will give a live performance on forgotten American history. There will be a discussion with the performers after the program on Zoom.
The Greenbelt Museum will show an interview with one of the first African Americans to move into Greenbelt in Desegregating Greenbelt on Thursday, February 25 at 7 p.m.
On Saturday, February 27 from 3 to 4 p.m., there will be a belly dance class taught by certified instructors from Belly Dancers of Color. Wear comfortable clothing and tighten those muscles. Sit in a chair or stand. Just Zoom in and enjoy!
Lastly, a video of the Gospel Choir from Eleanor Roosevelt High School will be shown via YouTube on Sunday, February 28 at 2 p.m.
GATe Newsreel will feature Black American history facts. Each Wednesday, Greenbelt Recreation is featuring a prominent African American on their Facebook site.
This country was built with the contributions of many ethnic groups and individuals. A goal of the committee is to share American history not usually included in the history books about the nation. Enjoy and participate in learning.