Black History Month is a time to celebrate the accomplishments, contributions and history of Black people in the United States.
February was designated as the national African American History Month by President Gerald Ford in 1976. The purpose of the month is to honor those individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of African Americans in our country.
In addition to celebrating their successes, Black History Month also serves as an opportunity for us to learn more about this important part of history. Below you’ll find five ways in which you can learn about and celebrate the contributions of African Americans in Harrisburg and beyond.
1. Attend Events
Black Newsbeat with Dr. Kimeka Campbell (Feb 6)
Dr. Kimeka Campbell explores the life and community of Harrisburg and its expressions in the Black and brown community at Open Stage at 7 pm. More Information
Ephraim Slaughter: Freedom’s Witness (Feb 14 - 22)
Ephraim Slaughter: Freedom’s Witness is a powerful one-act play that traces the life of Ephraim Slaughter, a man born into slavery who rose to become a Union Army veteran and respected community leader. Set in a Harrisburg room in 1943, the play unfolds through memory and reflection, revealing the personal cost of freedom and the strength required to claim it. Through evocative storytelling, the production honors resilience, courage, and the lasting impact of those who helped shape the nation’s history. For tickets and more information, click here.
To see what else is happening in Harrisburg, visit our calendar of events.
2. Visit Historic Monuments, Museums and Exhibits
A Gathering at the Crossroads: For Such a Time as This
Visit the First African American Monument on PA State Capitol Grounds, “A Gathering at the Crossroads: For Such a Time as This,” which was officially completed in 2020. The site of the monument is significant, located where Harrisburg’s “Old Eighth Ward” was, until the early 20th Century, a thriving multicultural neighborhood.
The monument commemorates two anniversaries of two major milestones in the quest for equal rights in America: The 150th anniversary of the 15th Amendment to the US Constitution granting Black men the right to vote (February 3); and 100th anniversary of 19th Amendment which granted voting rights to women (August 26).
For more information regarding this project, visit digitalharrisburg.com/commonwealth/
Civil War Museum
The National Civil War Museum is one of the largest museums in the world dedicated solely to the American Civil war. The Museum seeks to tell the whole story of this most troubled chapter in American history, while focusing on the issues, the people and the lives that were affected. The causes and ramifications of this conflict that divided a Nation are investigated; both Northern and Southern viewpoints are presented; and military as well as civilian perspectives are highlighted.
Be sure to visit the temporary exhibit, Pursuit of Freedom: The Abolition of Slavery. It displays pieces of history that cover the early attempts to abolish slavery in the United States.
The museum is open Monday to Saturday, 10am - 5pm and Sundays 12pm - 5pm. The museum also offers several programs throughout the year. Check out the next free event, James Hayney as President Abraham Lincoln, an in-depth review of the issues culminating in the 13th Amendment.
Learn more at nationalcivilwarmuseum.org/
“Trailblazers” Exhibit at the Pennsylvania Capitol Complex
Pennsylvania’s history is full of remarkable figures who not only helped to shape the future of the Commonwealth but also the future of the nation. Discover some of these inspiring stories when you browse the "Trailblazers: Notable African Americans in Pennsylvania History" exhibit located in the East Wing Rotunda at the Pennsylvania State Capitol. The exhibit includes 23 portraits in total, with eight rotating into the featured public display each year. Plan your visit to the capitol here.
3. Support Black Businesses
Harrisburg is a city that celebrates its cultural diversity, and the Black-Owned businesses within it are an important part of that. From restaurants and bars to arts and crafts, these businesses offer something for everyone in Harrisburg. This month and every month let’s support these amazing Black-Owned businesses in Harrisburg and discover how they contribute to the city's vibrant culture.
Click here for a list of Black-owned businesses in the Harrisburg area.
4. Visit a Mural: Raffia
A steering committee of Black Harrisburg community leaders dedicated to creating a mural celebrating Black culture guided the creation of "Raffia." They selected talented Black Harrisburg artist, Bryan “King Prolific” Hickman, after he served as an apprentice on Sprocket Mural Works’ Mulberry Street bridge murals. He describes “Raffia” as “Afro-inspired,” depicting a Black woman who’s a friend and Harrisburg resident. The mural incorporates themes of African American strength, appreciation for youth, and the importance of education. Studies show that murals that depict themes of diversity within diverse neighborhoods (such as Harrisburg’s) lead to increased community pride and civic engagement.
The mural is located at 928 James Street. Learn more about "Raffia" and other important murals here.
5. Contribute to Black Organizations and Charities
There are many ways to support your community, including donating money to a charity, movement or group. These monetary contributions can help fund programs and pay for legal costs and salaries that keep an organization afloat.
Here are some non-profit organizations advancing Black rights and equal justice:
