Cleveland State University’s Black Studies Program is presenting a wide range of activities in honor of Black History Month. From lectures to art exhibits to music concerts and festivals, Cleveland State is engaging the community in a celebration of the lives, history and culture of people of African descent.

All events are free and open to the public unless noted. The following is a selection of events; for a complete list and more information, please call the Black Studies Program at 216.687.5461 or visit www.csuohio.edu/class/blackstudies.

Thursday, February 14
Noon, CSU Art Gallery (2307 Chester Ave.)
Mere Witness
A collection of photographs by Michael S. Levy depicting Cleveland’s African American faith community at worship; featuring a presentation of poetry by the Black Studies Ambassadors

5:15 p.m.
TOMBOUCTOU Book Club Discussion 
Fearless Jones by Walter Mosley
Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center, UC 103

Friday, February 15
6:00 p.m.    CSU Art Gallery
Exploring Our Ancestry through the Art of the Griot
A presentation by Papa Susso as a Kuumba Arts Presentation
Friday, February 15
9:00 p.m.
The Jazz Heritage Orchestra (tickets required)
Cleveland Play House, STAGES Restaurant

Wednesday, February 20
10:00 a.m.
Wings Over Jordan Music Festival and High School Choral Competition
Waetjen Auditorium (Music and Communication Building, 2001 Euclid Ave.)

Thursday, February 21
7:00 p.m.
From Roots to Branches
A panel discussion with educators engaged in genealogical studies.
Panelists include Dr. Sanza Clark, Director of the Mali Yetu Program; Dr. Deborah A. Abbott, President of the African-American Genealogical Society of Cleveland; and Stanley Miller, Executive Director of the NAACP, Cleveland chapter.
Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center, UC 103

Friday, February 29
Noon
A Dialogue with Benjamin “Ras Solo” Simmons About Gullah Culture
Howard A. Mims African American Cultural Center, UC 103

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