February is recognized as Black History Month, a time when leaders, students, and citizens across the country will come together in celebration of African American heritage and culture. Here are several ways to take part in the celebration in Stony Brook and Setauket.
African American Read-In
Location: Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Stony Brook
Date & Time: Feb. 2 – Noon
Description: Read aloud or listen to excerpts from stories, poems, or essays by published African American authors. The first African American Read-In was held in 1990 and has since been sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English and endorsed by the International Reading Association.
A Celebration of Color
Location: Gallery North
Date & Time: Reception – Feb. 15 at 5 p.m. / Exhibit – Ongoing through March 17 during regular gallery hours.
Description: Experience African American heritage and culture through the artwork of eight contemporary artists.
Gospel Roots
Location: Stony Brook University (Student Activities Center)
Date & Time: Feb. 20, 8:30 p.m.
Description: Join the Stony Brook Gospel Choir for a celebration of gospel music in honor of its founders.
Symposium on Race and Representation
Location: Stony Brook University (Humanities & Wang Center)
Date & Time: Feb. 21, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Description: A one-day symposium that will explore the ways in which the black body is represented in literature, media, and the arts. Broken down into panel discussions and a presentation by speaker Deborah Willis.
Raisin' Cane with Jasmine Guy and the Avery Sharpe Trio
Location: Staller Center for the Arts
Date & Time: Feb. 23, 8 p.m.
Description: Raisin' Cane depicts Harlem in the 1920s, told through a dramatic performance by actress Jasmine Guy, an original musical score by the Avery Sharpe Trio, and photos and paintings from the artists of that era in Harlem.
