February 16–Former Black Panthers Party Panel Discussion
Join the discussion with those who were part of the Black Panther Party’s history in Marin City. The distinguished panel includes: Professor Walter Turner, Terrie Green, and Charles “Chuckie” Huff. Hosted at the MC Arts Gallery and moderated by Harold Wallace, chief executive officer, Marin City Health & Wellness Clinic and Rashida Skaar, Youth Services Librarian, Marin County S. Novato Library. Panel will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Register for the event here.
February 17–National Archives Museum Online: Matthew Henson, African American Explorer
A panel will discuss the life of African American explorer Matthew Henson, who spent years exploring the Arctic with Robert E. Peary. Henson was the first one to reach the North Pole in 1909, yet he was not given the same honors awarded to other members of the expedition. The panel will discuss Henson’s Arctic career using artifacts from the Berkshire Museum, the Explorers Club, and the National Archives and discuss recent research finds about Henson as well as the legacy he leaves us today. Panel will be held from 1:00 to 2:00 pm EST online–view on YouTube
Learn about the music of America’s black musical greats with Karlus Trapp, veteran troubador, songwriter, producer and music educator. The program is a 100-year journey back through time that comes alive through songs and stories. Karlus has been performing his “Roots of Black Music” show with Staten Island’s Universal Temple of the Arts Ensemble for over 10 years. This free event is sponsored by the Friends of Marin County Free Library, and begins at 4:00 p.m. To register click here.
February 25–Black History Month & Chinese New Year Poetry Reading
Poets Chun Yu and Michael Warr co-founded Two Languages/One Community to exchange culture and common experiences between African Americans and Chinese Americans using poetry and translation. The poets stand in solidarity with both communities in ensuring safety and peace against all forms of violence, hatred and discrimination. Experience their poems and stories in English and Chinese, accompanied by projected images of text and photographs at the Angel Island Immigration Station. Event begins at 11:30 a.m. at Angel Island State Park. For tickets click here.