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Health & Fitness

Celebrating a Rich History

Celebrating Black History.

Dear Baltimoreans,


Today might mark the official start to Black History Month, but here in Baltimore and around the nation we take time out all year long to honor the contributions African Americans have made to the fields of science and technology, academia and public service – just to name a few.

Locally, there are a number of exciting and educational events planned during the coming weeks.

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The Enoch Pratt Free Library is offering several special events this month.

At the Govans and Orleans Street Branches on Feb. 2 and 7 at 6:30 p.m., enjoy an evening of African dancing and drumming performed by the Nazu Dance Company, under the artistic direction of Nai Zou Oliver.

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Over at the Central Branch on Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m., hear a panel discussion examining ethics in medical education, research, treatment, and practice and explore the parallels between Fortune's story and that of Henrietta Lacks. Panelists include: Professor Taunya Lovell-Banks, University of Maryland School of Law; Dr. Curt Civin, University of Maryland School of Medicine; David Lacks, son of Henrietta Lacks; Ysaye Barnwell, composer and curator of the Fortune's Bones Project. Kojo Nnamdi of WAMU-FM will moderate. For more information, visit prattlibrary.org.

Meanwhile, the B&O Railroad Museum invites you to celebrate the contributions of African Americans to the railroad industry. Learn about these men and women who filled vital jobs along the B&O Railroad's line and understand how significant social issues, such as segregation, affected railroading. The exhibit runs from Feb. 1 through Feb. 29. For more information, visit borail.org.


The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture is hosting the exhibit Dandy Lion: Articulating a Re(de)fined Black Masculine Identity from Jan. 29 through May 13. Other permanent exhibitions pay homage to African American History, including the museum's fourth annual High School Juried Art Show. Visit africanamericanculture.org for more information.


The celebration of history continues in June during the African American Festival, an annual family celebration of the history, culture, education, heritage and arts that embraces and promotes the rich traditions and zestful spirit of the city of Baltimore. Participate in a diverse offering of arts and entertainment including national and local talent; educational and historical exhibits; interactive children's area; and crafts from more than 100 vendors, community organizations and merchants. Visit aahf.net for more information.


These are just some of the events around Baltimore that can help us celebrate and remember the rich African American history that is woven into our past, present and future.

Bernard C. “Jack” Young
President, Baltimore City Council

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