How Kansas City honors Black history
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Kansas City's Black history lives in music halls, libraries, art studios, and community spaces throughout the metro. Here's how to celebrate Black History Month across the city.
Things to do
📕 Feb. 1–28: Black History Month at the Kansas City Public Library
All nine branches have a calendar full of events this month, from film screenings at the Central Library's Durwood Film Vault, a signature author event with Imani Perry, history talks and hands-on activities for kids and teens.
📚 Feb. 17-28: Black History Month Challenge
The Kansas City, Kansas Public Library is hosting a self-guided reading and activity challenge that encourages participants to explore Black history through books and library resources. Ages 12 and up.
🎨 Feb. 7: Reclaiming the Canvas | A Tribute to 100 Years of Black History Month
The event brings KC poets, musicians, dancers and visual artists to Zhou B Art Center for a one-night celebration honoring Black artists.
🎬 Feb. 20-21: Reel Black Film Festival
Kansas City PBS brings its annual Reel Black Film Festival to the historic Gem Theater and the American Jazz Museum at 18th & Vine. The festival highlights films by Black filmmakers and stories connected to Black history and culture.
🍽️ Feb. 21: Black History Luncheon
The Black Archives of Mid-America hosts its annual luncheon, which honors Black leadership and community impact in KC.
Where to visit
Located at 18th & Vine, the American Jazz Museum offers exhibits focused on jazz history and Black musical innovation.
⚾ Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
Also at 18th & Vine, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum preserves the history of Black baseball and its role in the fight against segregation.