Through numerous collaborations with organizations and businesses in the Coastal Bend, events throughout Black History Month honor the achievements and advancements of Black Americans who have inspired others and paved the way for many successes.
Various community organizations celebrate Black History Month each year with enriching conversations, presentations and showcases — most of which are open to the public. Here is a run-down of Black History Month events in Corpus Christi for you to participate in.
Black History Month – Corpus Christi Leaders Spotlight
Where: Corpus Christi Black Chamber Facebook | When: All Month
For the entire month of February, the Corpus Christi Black Chamber will be sharing fellow local community leaders who’ve made an impact in our community. From Dr. Gloria Scott, the first Black woman to serve as the Girl Scouts of America president, to Jeremy Coleman, the local chapter president of the NAACP, follow along and learn about past and present icons in the Coastal Bend.
Corpus Christi Black Chamber of Commerce Meet & Greet
Where: Prime Whiskey Lounge | When: Feb. 6, 6-8 p.m.
Join the Corpus Christi Black Chamber of Commerce for a night of networking. Mix and mingle with the Chamber’s leadership team to learn more about their efforts, mission and how to join.
Black History Month Film Series
Where: Dr. Clotilde P. Garcia Public Library | When: Feb. 8 & Feb. 15, 11 a.m.
The Garcia Library will host free public movie events in honor of Black History Month. On Feb. 8, watch Men of Honor, the inspiring story of Carl Brashear, the first African-American master diver and master chief in the U.S. Navy (recommended for ages 16 and up). Return on Feb. 15 for Flying for Freedom, which shares the powerful voices and stories of remarkable servicemen and their enduring legacy of courage (recommended for ages 16 and up).
Spirit of MLK Awards
Where: TAMU-CC UC Anchor Ballrooms A&B | When: Feb. 10, 6-7:30 p.m.
The Spirit of MLK Awards commends community members of the Coastal Bend, staff and students of TAMU-CC for their commitment to social justice and service to Corpus Christi. The Islander Cultural Alliance hosts its annual Spirit of MLK Exemplary Awards in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. RSVP to the event online.
Afro-Fest: Exploring The African Diaspora
Where: TAMU-CC UC Marlin 317 | When: Feb. 13, 5-9 p.m.
Join the TAMU-CC Black Student Union for a thought-provoking and immersive event. Attendees will dive into the rich history, cultural significance and contributions of the African diaspora. A series of insightful discussions and interactive exhibits will take participants through centuries of migration, resistance, resilience and innovation. This event is for TAMU-CC students and you must RSVP to attend.
Jamaica and Tamarindo: Afro Tradition in the Heart of Mexico Screening
Where: TAMU-CC, TBD | When: Feb. 18, 3:30-4:45 p.m.
TAMU-CC professor Dr. Marco Cerueira, along with his Introduction to Black Studies class, will host a screening of the short documentary Jamaica and Tamarindo: Afro Tradition in the Heart of Mexico. Free drinks and snacks will be served. For more information, contact Dr. Cerqueira by email or calling (361) 825-3158.
STEM Operation Success Movie Night
Where: Alamo Drafthouse | When: Feb. 22, 3-5 p.m.
The STEM Operation Success program has partnered with Alamo Drafthosue Corpus Christi to host a free movie night in honor of Black History Month. The first 50 individuals to RSVP will receive free popcorn, candy and a drink. Contact event organizer Sebastian Garcia for further details.
If you know of a Black History Month event in the Coastal Bend and don’t see it listed here, send information to kylie@thebendmag.com and we’ll get it added!
