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Best Black History Events In Sacramento

For 36 consecutive years, every American president has issued a proclamation that February is Black History Month in America. From its roots as "Negro History Week" early in the 20th century, the national celebration honors achievements of African Americans and the pivotal role they played in U.S. history. Sacramento has events and celebrations planned throughout the month. Here are some of the best Black History Month events in the city.

WaZoBia! With Mr. Sunny: A Black History Month Celebration
Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library
7335 Gloria Drive
Sacramento, CA, 95831
(916) 264-2700
Price: Free
www.saclibrary.org

Saturday, February 11, 2012 at  2 p.m.

WaZoBia! means Come! Come! Come! in three Nigerian tribal languages. This high energy Sacramento-based multicultural dance and theater group teaches drum, dance and rhythmic singing to all ages. Mr. Sunny shares his passion and love for Africa through art workshops and educational programs at this Black History Month celebration.

Related: Best Dance Companies In Sacramento

Lisa Nichols
(credit: Yinspire Media)

Evening with Lisa Nichols Celebrating The Unbreakable Spirit: Gala Reception and Book Launch
Le Rivage Hotel & Spa
4800 Riverside Blvd.
Sacramento, CA., 95822
(916) 284-7831
Price: $65.00
www.lerivagehotel.com

February 17, 2012 at 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Treat yourself to a red carpet event as this gala reception and book launch from best-selling author and transformational coach Lisa Nichols. Enjoy an evening of hors d'oeuvres, live music and a book reading from the pages of Ms. Nichols' new book, "Unbreakable Spirit Rising Above The Impossible." Lisa Nichols is perhaps best known for her book "Chicken Soup for the African American Soul" and her appearances on "Larry King Live" and "The Oprah Winfrey Show." Her new book is co-authored by poet and best-selling author Loretta (LaRue) Duncan-Fowler.

23rd Annual African American Young Male Conference
Genesis Charter High School
5735 47th Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95824-4528
(916) 484-5645
Price: Registration is free until Friday, Feb. 17, $10 cash or money order at the door
www.100blackmensacramento.com

Saturday, February 25, 2012 at 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Young men ages 12 to 21 years are invited to the 23rd Annual Northern California African American Young Male Conference in Sacramento this February. Prepare to be inspired by the conference's keynote speaker, renowned poet Sekou Andrews. Pre-register and attend three of 15 workshops sponsored by nearly a dozen different local multicultural organizations, including Sacramento Unified School District and Prince Hall Masons, District #2.

Black History Month Illustration
(credit: Thinkstock)

Tracing Your Black Roots: A Black History Month Program
Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library
7335 Gloria Drive
Sacramento, CA 95831
(916) 264-2700
Price: Free
www.saclibrary.org

Saturday, February 25, 2012 at 1 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Satisfy your curiosity and locate your ancestors as you trace your black roots at the Pocket-Greenhaven Library. Document your family lineage with genealogist Lisa B. Lee in this afternoon workshop, where you'll learn to use genealogy tools and resources to document your family history.

Jodama Drum & Dance
Sam Pannell Meadowview Community Center
2450 Meadowview Rd.
Sacramento, CA, 95832
(916) 519-3383
Dinner served 3 p.m. - 4 p.m.; performance from 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Price: Includes buffet dinner and show, Ages 12 to adult, $25.00; ages 5-11, $15.00; ages 4 and under, free
www.cityofsacramento.org

Sunday, February 26, 2012 at 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The House of Prayer Holy Reformation Church presents Jodama Drum & Dance's "Reflections From the Past," a high-energy Black History Month event. Expect to be entertained with authentic African drumming, dancing and skits with a historical perspective. Jodama is an energetic group of young performers who blend traditional African music with their own unique high energy percussion and contemporary sound. Enjoy the authentic, intricate costumes and choreographed stage presentation. Start the evening off right with a home-cooked soul food buffet before the performance.

Related: Black History performances

Chuck Douros is a freelance writer, journalist, copywriter and editor from northern California. He specializes in web-based news and website content. Find his work here.


 

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