Celebrate Black History Month in Lincoln Square

The seed of an idea that turned into National Black History Month was planted almost a century ago. In 1926, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, renowned historian and author, began celebrating Negro History Week through his organization, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. In 1975, the celebration went nationwide when President Ford issued a Message on the Observance of Black History Week. The following year, President Ford extended the week to one month, a precedent that has continued (learn more here). But how does one celebrate Black History? In Lincoln Square, there are numerous ways to honor Black culture, history, and contributions this month!

This February, Lincoln Center has a spotlight on Black History Month. There are a range of events and concerts, like a multimedia ethnographic anthology at Alice Tully Hall (1941 Broadway at W 65th) about the influence of pre-Emancipation voices across generations; Blues Jam concerts at Jazz at Lincoln Center (Broadway at W 60th); and a digital exhibition chronicling the history of Black artists at the Metropolitan Opera (30 Lincoln Center Plaza). Lincoln Center Theater (150 W 65th St)  will even be highlighting Black Stories seen on their stages via their Instagram account. Later in the month, on February 26, Museum of Arts and Design (2 Columbus Circle) will present a free screening of the critically acclaimed Black Barbie: A Documentary, followed by a conversation with the film’s director and programmer. 

Bookworms will be delighted to find two tables devoted to Black History Month at Lincoln Square’s neighborhood bookstore, Shakespeare and Co. (2020 Broadway between W 69th and 70th). A table at the front of the store features children’s books, while another has books by Black authors and books on topics related to Black history and culture. For those who prefer to borrow books, the New York Public Library has collected a Black Liberation Reading List for Adults. You can easily pick up your books at the NYPL Riverside branch (127 Amsterdam at W 65th). 

You can continue to learn about Black history through events and talks all month long. The NYPL Riverside branch is offering an online teen event on February 13, during which three librarians will share their personal favorite comics and manga for Black History Month and Valentine’s Day. The New York Library for the Performing Arts (40 Lincoln Center Plaza) will provide an evening of film and discussion on February 6. Their event, Film Series: Women in Jazz, will focus on the first racially-integrated all-female band in the US. Later in the month, on February 25, the library will focus on swing dance in Harlem and its influential characters during another event, The Dance Historian Is In: Barbara A. Jones on Mama Lu Parks and Lindy Hop.

Just steps outside of the Lincoln Square BID, you’ll find even more Black History Month talks and exhibitions. At The New York Historical (170 Central Park West), you can enjoy programs for kids like this educational event on February 16 about President George Washington’s enslaved chef, Hercules Posey, and adult programming like The Power of Beauty: Rethinking Black Women’s Activism (February 6). Later in the month, between February 25 and 28, stop by the West Side Y (5 W 63rd at Central Park West at W 77th) to see their Black Excellence Exhibit, a free exhibit celebrating Black Excellence and featuring artwork by children in the West Side Y’s Early Childhood program.

From thought-provoking discussions to entrancing cultural performances, Lincoln Square’s businesses and institutions provide countless ways to honor and uplift Black culture, history, and achievements. By coming together to learn, reflect, and engage, we contribute to a more inclusive and connected community. We hope you find your own special way to celebrate Black History Month this February!

Photo Credit: The Metropolitan Opera