Press contact: Angela Try

SPRINGFIELD — Lincoln Land Community College honors African-American History Month during February with, “A Celebration of the Arts.” Various events planned throughout the month will highlight the African-American influence on American culture from visual and performing arts to fashion, language, architecture and more. 

The following events are free and open to the public and will be held in A. Lincoln Commons at LLCC’s Springfield campus, 5250 Shepherd Road. The LLCC African-American History Month Committee and LLCC Student Life are event co-sponsors.

Thursday, Feb. 1 – African-American History Month kickoff event: “Paint and Sip,” 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants can enjoy the rich flavors of dark and light hot chocolates while channeling creativity on canvas. This event is co-sponsored by the Black Student Union and Logger Activities Board.

Wednesday, Feb. 7 – “Young, Gifted & Black,” 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This presentation by Britainy Montague focuses on her message, “To be young, gifted and black, we must begin to tell our young, there’s a world waiting for you. Yours is the quest that’s just begun.” Registration requested.

Thursday, Feb. 15 – Open Mic Night, 6 to 8 p.m. Let your voice be heard, whether you are a singer, poet, musician or an enthusiastic audience member. Advance registration is encouraged. This event is sponsored by the Black Student Union.

Friday, Feb. 23 – Mental Health and the Arts: Rebuild to Reclaim. Conversation and activities will be held on destigmatizing mental health in the African-American community, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 26 – Music of the Movement, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Learn how songs have influenced social justice movements over the years.

Tuesday, Feb. 27 – “Empowerment and Resilience: A Black History Month Panel on Building Community, Advocating for Justice and Inspiring Change,” 10 a.m. to noon. 

Thursday, Feb. 29 – African-American Food and Vendor Day, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event features free samples of African-American food, displays on the wares of African-American entrepreneurs and music by DJ Yinka. 

More information and registration for select events is available at https://library.llcc.edu/AAHM.