By Kelli Nesbitt, Parks & Recreation Marketing Coordinator
Not sure how to celebrate African American History Month? Brushing up on critical historical moments or celebrating with your local community is an excellent place to start. Black history is shaped by the people, places, and things we encounter daily.
You might have filtered through the Lincoln Recreation Center for various activities and programs but didn’t realize the building’s historical significance. The center was formerly known as Lincoln High School, a segregated institution that served as a social hub for College Station’s black community. The school’s motto was, “Forward forever, backward never.”
As we embrace “forever forward” and our proud history, the Lincoln Recreation Center invites you to celebratory events scheduled throughout February as we observe African American History Month.
CREATIVE EXPRESSION THROUGH ART:
MASQUERADE PAINT PARTY (ages 16+)
Thursday, Feb. 2 • 6-8 p.m.
Grab your friends for an African masquerade paint party to create your masterpiece on a pre-drawn canvas as you mingle. Painting experience isn’t required; participants receive a canvas, paint, brushes, an easel, and a disposable apron. Light refreshments will also be served. The cost is $20 per person; registration is required by Jan. 30.
COMMUNITY CONVERSATION & PANEL DISCUSSION:
“SEARCHING FOR BIRDIE” BY DONNA DAVIS LEWIS (ages 16+)
Saturday, Feb. 4 • 1-3:30 p.m.
Meet, greet, and have meaningful conversations with author Donna Davis Lewis as she discusses her book Searching for Birdie. The story is about one of the estimated 64,000 black women that are missing in the United States. The book addresses colorism, sexism, racism, LGBTQ prejudice, and the joys and limitations of true love while telling the story of a daughter’s journey to the truth.
Following the discussion, a panel of social and community leaders addresses challenges in the Brazos Valley. The event is in partnership with the Brazos Valley Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
GIRLS IN STEM EXPO (ages 8-18)
Saturday, Feb. 11 • 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Girls ages 8-18 are invited to explore the world of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) in an interactive and engaging setting. The program is designed to excite and empower girls with knowledge and confidence in STEM to become problem solvers and leaders. Admission is free, but registration is required by Feb. 3. Lunch is provided.
WHO ARE WE:
WE ARE BLACK HISTORY (all ages)
Friday, Feb. 17 • 5-6 p.m.
Lincoln Recreation Center youth and local organizations take us on a journey through the history of black excellence as they explore various African American inventors, poets, musicians, and dancers. Young entrepreneurs and visionaries also exhibit their knowledge and creations, and light refreshments are served. To participate, email mwatson@cstx.gov or call 979-764-3779.
BLUES & SOUL FOOD NIGHT (ALL AGES)
Friday, Feb. 24 • 7-10 p.m.
Enjoy food for the soul while listening to live blues and R&B by the Brown Sugar Band. Admission is free, but dinner is $15 a plate. The menu by Leave it to Lavone Celebrity Catering offers meatloaf, fried chicken, green beans with smoked turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, jams, and bread. Each plate includes one meat, two sides, and bread.
For more information about Lincoln Recreation Center events and programs, visit cstx.gov/LincolnCenter or call 979-764-3779.
Related Posts:
- Lincoln Center, neighborhood thrive after years of investment
- Proud history moves Lincoln Center “forever forward.”
- A&M students provide a glimpse into Lincoln Center’s past
- Local team pays tribute to the Lincoln High Panthers
- “Redeeming Time” Endures at Historic Lincoln Center
- Lincoln alumni blaze an impressive trail of achievement
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