Akron Reporter

Akron, Ohio  — On Feb. 1, as the nation kicks off Black History Month, Mayor Malik has announced the City of Akron’s support and celebration of the month-long dedication.  

“Black History Month is an opportunity for us to recognize and uplift the important contributions of our Black community throughout the history of our city,” said Mayor Malik.  “All month long on our social media channels we will be sharing highlights of Black Akronites both past and present, showcasing important landmarks in our city, talking about important events from Akron’s past, sharing upcoming events taking place to celebrate, and much more. This month is also an excellent time to recommit to the important work of equity here in Akron. We must strive not only this month, but every month, to achieve equal opportunities for all Akronites.”

Black History Month Events

• Akron Art Museum
  All month long, the Akron Art Museum is presenting RETOLD: African American Art & Folklore. This exhibit features art from the Wesley and Missy Cochran Collection and focuses on four themes: Remembering, Religion, Racialization, and Resistance. The Art Museum gallery is free every Thursday. For hours and ticket info visit org.
  
  
• Akron-Summit County Public Library
  On Feb. 7 from 6-7pm, the Odom Boulevard and Maple Valley Branch Libraries are hosting the first part of a Black History Month Four-Part Music Series via Zoom. They will explore Blues, Jazz, Gospel, R&B, Disco, Hip-Hop, Rap, and the artists that changed the world through their music. Learn more and register here.

 

 

• Akron Soul Train
  Akron Soul Train (191 S Main St.) artist-in-residence Gina Washington examines Black American identity in her exhibit “Universal Child.” Gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The exhibit is freeand open to the public and runs through Feb. 10. 
  
  
• University of Akron
  The University's Office of Inclusion and Equity and Office of Multicultural Development are hosting a conversation with Akron's own Kofi Boakye. Kofi is a 24-year-old Emmy Nominated pianist, producer, and actor. The event is free and open to the public and takes place Thurs. Feb. 8 at 5pm at the Jean Hower Taber Student Union Gardner Theatre. Learn more here.
  
  
• Akron Symphony Orchestra: Gospel Meets Symphony
  Gospel Meets Symphony is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The annual concert features local musicians and vocalists, including the GMS 2.0 Choir, the junior gospel choir. Ticketsstart at $15. The event is Sat. Feb. 10 at 7:30pm at the E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall.  

Black-owned Businesses

The city is also celebrating our Black-owned businesses this month with the Akronite app. Over 65 Black-owned businesses are now on the app and for the month of February, users can earn an additional 15% back in Blimps when shopping at these businesses. The app is free to download on Apple and Android devices. Learn more about the app at AkronOhio.gov/Akronite.

Engagement

Mayor Malik is encouraging residents to follow the city’s social media pages on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and comment and tag their favorite local Black-owned business, Black artists and musicians to help amplify the voices of our community.

Original source can be found here.