Metro Detroit Black History Month celebrations will be mostly virtual

Brendel Hightower
Detroit Free Press

February is designated as Black History Month, a time to celebrate African American history and achievements.

Due to the pandemic, events will be handled a little differently with many organizations offering online programs.

Here is a list of upcoming celebrations. Email bhightower@freepress.com to add your event to the Free Press list.

PBS: Celebrate Black History Month and Black culture all year long with programming that includes documentaries and thought-provoking specials. pbs.org

The programs featured above on PBS are, clockwise from top left: AMERICAN EXPERIENCE “Goin' Back to T-Town” (Courtesy of Greenwood Cultural Center); INDEPENDENT LENS “Mr. Soul!” (Courtesy of Alex Harsley); AMERICAN EXPERIENCE "Voice of Freedom" (Courtesy of From Original Negative / Alamy Stock Photo); and THE BLACK CHURCH: THIS IS OUR STORY, THIS IS OUR SONG

The Detroit Institute of Arts: Celebrate Black History Month at home with free online programs that includes music, films, art talks, art making and events for foodies. Dia.org.

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History: Will have in-person and online events free of charge. thewright.org.

Southfield Parks & Recreation Department: Will have virtual as well as individual and outdoor programs that includes a drive in movie, lectures and more. cityofsouthfield.com

The Henry Ford: There will be opportunities to celebrate at the museum and from home. thehenryford.org.

The City of Detroit's Celebration of Black History Month and launch of Undefeated, a year-long celebration of Detroit arts and culture: Celebrations will include a look at Detroit's historic sites, Black dance, music, poetry, comedy, fashion and more. Events can be watched live on Zoom at https://cityofdetroit.zoom.us/j/86478139644, dial in number is 267-831-0333 or 301-715-8592, meeting ID: 864 7813 9644; channel 22 and Facebook @CityofDetroit. Go to detroitmi.gov for more information.

Brendel Hightower is an assistant editor at the Detroit Free Press. Contact her at bhightower@freepress.com.