Black History Month in Indianapolis is more than a series of events – it’s a vibrant tapestry of stories, art, and culture that provide an opportunity for reflection, celebration and unity. We asked some community members what they’re looking forward to this month and added a few selections of our own to celebrate the richness and diversity of the African American experience.
What Really Happened On Indiana Avenue? A Story Untold
6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 1, Indiana Landmarks, 1201 Central Ave. Free.
Tickets for the in-person event at Indiana Landmarks are sold out, but you can still register to participate on Zoom. A group of panelists, moderated by A’Lelia Bundles, a journalist, historian and great-granddaughter of Madam C.J. Walker, will talk about the activists who resisted the policy decisions that led to the decline of the thriving Black cultural and business center during the 1970s and ‘80s.
Recommended by: Faren Jones of Kuumba Strategies. “I’m interested in the possibility of learning new facts and stories, and maybe even something contradictory to what I’ve learned before that will send me on a research journey to find the truth.”
Art & Soul
Feb. 2, 7 and 23, various locations. Prices vary.
Since 1996, the Art & Soul festival has celebrated Black culture and creativity in Indianapolis and helped launch the careers of emerging artists. Enjoy music, visual art, spoken word and more–and don’t miss the free finale on Feb. 23 at the Indianapolis Artsgarden, highlighting the iconic music of Indiana Avenue from past to present.
Recommended by: Teacher Nikki Garland and artist Sarah Jenè. “I particularly enjoy the dance performances,” Garland said. Jenè said, “The energy is always explorative and fun. There’s always this feeling like you’re at a family reunion.”
Black History Month: Then & Now
6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 2, Rapp Family Gallery, 1202 Central Ave. Free.
This group show, curated by Clayton Hamilton of InSight Art, highlights Indiana artists and their expressions of their Black heritage. It features Kenneth Cousin, Harvey William Francis III, and Greg Moore with additional work exhibited by Tasha Beckwith and Chrystopher Burns. Free snacks and beverages will be served.
A Touch of Glory
Various times Feb. 9-11 and 16-18, Crispus Attucks High School, 1140 Doctor M.L.K. Jr St.
The inspiring story of the legendary Crispus Attucks High School all-Black boys’ basketball team, led to an Indiana state championship title in 1955 by Oscar Robertson, will take the stage for several performances. Some community showings are free, and tickets are $20-$30 during NBA All-Star 2024 weekend.
A free, special matinee on Feb. 17 will also feature a conversation with Attucks alumni. The play was written by Laura Town and produced in collaboration with Deborah Asante & Artists.
Black History Month pop-in shop
6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Feb. 10, Fort Ben library branch, 9330 E. 56th St. Free.
Support local Black-owned businesses at this celebration of entrepreneurship and creativity, featuring everything from fashion to crafts, as well as literature from the Garden of Readin’ Book Closet.
I Have a Dream Black History Month event
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 10, Washington Township Park Pavilion Center, 435 Whipple Ave., Avon. Free.
Immerse yourself in the richness of Black history at this event through crafts, entertainment, vendors and more. Indulge your palate with the flavors of soul food and African American cuisine by visiting the different food trucks.
Indianapolis Black Documentary Film Festival mini-fest
Feb. 23-24, Hardin Gathertorium at Martin University, 2186 N. Sherman Drive. $10-$25.
The weekend kicks off 7 to 9 p.m. Friday with a screening of “Greenwood: A Dream Destroyed,” directed by Brian Day, and continues at 11 a.m. Saturday with a showing of five films.
Recommended by Christiana Beasley, designer: “Using our diverse, cinematic voices is crucial in opening the world and our history (and) sharing our realities and authenticities despite stereotypes we’ve been repeatedly typecast.”
Interior Emotions of Poetry
5 p.m. Feb. 24, Philippine Cultural Community Center, 4141 S. East St. Free.
Poets from the Black and Asian communities will join together for a cultural exchange and celebration of Black History Month. Refreshments will be provided.
Recommended by Thomas Kneeland, poet: “In her critically acclaimed book, ‘Song of Solomon,’ Toni Morrison writes, ‘[Blackness] don’t stay still, it moves and changes from one kind of black to another…May as well be a rainbow.’ This event is reflective of Morrison’s words because we see and hear elements of Blackness from more than one lens. For me, the amplification of intersecting cultures is what’s most important, and I believe that the Philippine Cultural Community Center has the right leadership and vision in mind to contribute to the tapestry of our Black rainbow.”
Rhythm & Poetry Open Mic: Black Excellence
8:30 p.m. Feb. 29, PHIRI art gallery, 120 E. Market St. $10.
Local Black artists will showcase their talents through spoken word, poetry and music. It’s a chance for audience members to immerse themselves in the beauty of Black expression while networking with creatives and business professionals.