Celebrating Black History Month
Dear Prince Georgians,
Today marks the start of Black History Month. Since 1976, the United States has celebrated Black History Month during the month of February to recognize and honor the many achievements and contributions of African Americans to our society. During this month, we take time to reflect on our past while celebrating the history of our diverse and vibrant African American community.
The national theme for Black History Month 2022 is “Black Health and Wellness,” which acknowledges the legacy of Black scholars and medical practitioners in Western medicine, and the other ways in which the African American community has contributed to healthcare (e.g., birthworkers, doulas, midwives, naturopaths, herbalists, etc.) throughout the African Diaspora.
This theme speaks to the challenges that African Americans have faced in the healthcare system for decades, and the COVID-19 pandemic has proved that communities of color continue to face disparities in our healthcare system today. Black History Month reminds us that we must remain committed to working towards building a brighter and more equitable future for all Americans.
Over the next several weeks, Prince George’s County will host a number of celebrations and events in recognition of Black History Month. There will be opportunities for the entire family to commemorate the history and culture of the African American community, as well as celebrate all that we have to be proud of in Prince George’s County. We are proud to honor African American heritage in our County and we encourage you and your family to celebrate with us.
Happy Black History Month!
Yours in service,
Angela Alsobrooks
Prince George’s County Executive
M-NCPPC Celebrates Black History Month
 The M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County has announced its robust programming schedule in honor of Black History Month 2022. From performances to history lessons and virtual festivals, there are exciting events and activities planned for the community. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, most programs will be held virtually.
For a full list of Black History Month offerings and to register for events, visit the M-NCPPC Department of Parks and Recreation’s website here.
More Than a Month: Commemorating 40 Years of the M-NCPPC Black History Program, 1982-2022
 This year’s M-NCPPC Black History Month exhibition commemorates the 40th anniversary of the M-NCPPC Black History Program. Founded in 1982, the program was born out of grassroots activism as members of Prince George’s County’s growing Black community pushed for more research and historic site identification and preservation highlighting Black narratives within the County. Guided tours of the exhibition are available for schools and community groups. To schedule a tour, contact Abraham Hall with the M-NCPPC Black History Program at 240-264-3415 or email blackhistory@pgparks.com.
Black Aviators Tour
 M-NCPPC is celebrating Black History Month by highlighting history’s Black aviators, from the legendary Eugene Bullard to local aviator Gus McLeod, and their impacts on aviation. Join them for the Black Aviators Tour today, February 1 and Wednesday, February 26 at the College Park Aviation Museum. For more information, visit the M-NCPPC Department of Parks and Recreation’s website here.
PGCMLS Celebrates Black History Month
 The Prince George's County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) is hosting a series of events to help residents explore, connect, and grow during Black History Month! From weekly story times to historical lectures and films, there is something for the entire family. All events are free and open to the public. For more information, and to find a full list of Black History Month events, visit the PGCMLS website here.
Prince George's County Reads:
"A Question of Freedom"
 The Prince George’s County Memorial Library System’s (PGCMLS) “Prince George's County Reads” program invites residents to join them in reading, "A Question of Freedom: The Families Who Challenged Slavery from the Nation's Founding to the Civil War" by William G. Thomas III on Tuesday, February 8, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This book explores the history of enslaved Black residents of the County who challenged slavery in the courts from the late-18th century through the Civil War. To learn more information or to register to attend, visit the PGCMLS website here.
The Elephant We Don't See: A Diversity Dialogue "The Source of Self-Regard" by Toni Morrison
 The Prince George's County Memorial Library System and Prince George's County Office of Human Rights present "The Elephant We Don't See: A Diversity Dialogue ‘The Source of Self-Regard by Toni Morrison’" on Tuesday, February 22, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Michelle Hamiel and Kyla Hanington will discuss equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism with books as a launch point. The discussion can be viewed here.
Open Mic: Celebrating Black Culture
 The Prince George's County Memorial Library System and Creative Suitland host a monthly virtual open mic for poets and spoken word artists of all ages. Join them on Wednesday, February 23, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM for their special Black History Month edition with the theme of “Celebrating Black Culture.” To learn more information or to register to attend, visit the PGCMLS website here.
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