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IT'S BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN NORTH LIBERTY

Writer's picture: Kelly SittigKelly Sittig

This post was originally an email on February 11, 2024.



Mayor Chris Hoffman will proclaim February to be Black History Month in North Liberty at the Tuesday, February 13th, City Council Meeting. You're invited to join other Anti-Racism & Social Justice group members to accept the proclamation at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, City Hall, 3 Quail Creek Circle.

 


 


HARMONY IN DIVERSITY: A SYMPHONY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE ARTS

By Quanda Hood, North Liberty



February marks the celebration of Black History Month, a time to reflect on the rich tapestry of African American history and honor the remarkable contributions of individuals who have shaped the cultural landscape. The theme for Black History Month 2024, "African Americans and the Arts," invites us to delve into the profound artistic expressions that resonate through time. In this poetic exploration, we pay homage to the creative genius of James Dupree, Amanda Gorman, Ta-Nehisi Coates, Misty Copeland, Hank Willis Thomas, H.E.R., Ava DuVernay, and Joel Thompson, who have left an indelible mark on the canvas of American culture. 


The Arts have long been a significant influence in my life since I was a little girl. My love of the Arts began with my first box of 64 Crayola Crayons with the sharpener in the back. However, throughout my life, the arts have been an integral part of my life, work, career, and education. 

 

I graduated with an undergraduate degree in Art History and Aesthetics. Believe it or not, although I’ve earned a living in tech, I use the skills of visualization, creativity, and philosophies of art almost every day. It is a cornerstone of who I am, what I believe, and where I go. 

 

So when I learned the 2024 theme for Black History Month, you can imagine my elation at what has always been an essential yearly observance where the struggles and achievements of black and brown people are celebrated. Here, I present eight short vignettes about contemporary African American artists whose work represents an artistic presentation of the effects of systemic and institutionalized racism and discrimination in the past, present, and future. But also how they are influencers and change-makers today. 

 

In the heart of Philadelphia, artist James Dupree unveils the soul-stirring masterpiece, "If Not Now, When, America — Past and Present." Through a symphony of colors and shapes, Dupree confronts the echoes of history, challenging viewers to contemplate the urgency of the present moment. Dupree bridges the gap between past and present with each stroke, inviting us to question and reimagine our shared narrative. His work is a testament to art's power to provoke introspection and inspire change (Dupree, 2020).

 

Amanda Gorman: "The Hill We Climb"

Poet Amanda Gorman's eloquence transcends the boundaries of time and circumstance in "The Hill We Climb." Her words dance with rhythm and grace, weaving a tapestry of hope and resilience. Gorman's poem captures the zeitgeist and propels us toward a future where unity and justice prevail. Through her poetic prowess, Gorman invites us to climb the hill of progress together, leaving no one behind (Gorman, 2021).

 

Ta-Nehisi Coates: "Between the World and Me"

Ta-Nehisi Coates, a literary luminary, pens the profound narrative "Between the World and Me." In this intimate letter to his son, Coates explores the complexities of being Black in America. Through his poignant prose, he unpacks the historical and systemic challenges faced by African Americans, offering a lens into the intricacies of the human experience. Coates' work serves as both a mirror and a roadmap for a society seeking understanding and empathy (Coates, 2015). 


Misty Copeland: "Let's Make a Pointe!"

Dancer extraordinaire Misty Copeland gracefully defies conventions in "Let's Make a Pointe!" With each pirouette, she shatters stereotypes, redefining the narrative of ballet. Copeland's artistry graces the stage and transcends into a movement of inclusivity, inspiring aspiring dancers to dream beyond traditional boundaries (Copeland, 2022).

 

Hank Willis Thomas: "Raise Up"

Sculptor Hank Willis Thomas raises his voice through the powerful piece "Raise Up." Through the language of sculpture, Thomas challenges societal norms and confronts issues of race, identity, and equality. "Raise Up" beckons us to acknowledge the voices that have been silenced and to uplift those whose stories demand to be heard (Thomas, 2019).

 

H.E.R.: "I Can't Breathe"

Musician H.E.R. strikes a poignant chord with "I Can't Breathe." She captures the anguish and resilience of a community grappling with systemic injustice through soul-stirring melodies and evocative lyrics. H.E.R.'s music becomes a rallying cry for change, echoing the collective plea for equality and justice (H.E.R., 2020).

 

Ava DuVernay: "13th"

Ava DuVernay, a trailblazing filmmaker, unveils the harsh realities of the criminal justice system in "13th." Through meticulous storytelling, she unravels the historical roots of racial inequality, sparking a crucial conversation about the need for reform. DuVernay's film serves as a compelling call to action, challenging us to confront the injustices embedded within the very fabric of society (DuVernay, 2016). 


Composer Joel Thompson creates a hauntingly beautiful composition in "Seven Last Words of the Unarmed." Through the language of music, Thompson memorializes the lives lost to police violence, inviting reflection and contemplation. The composition becomes a powerful requiem, urging us to confront the systemic issues perpetuating the injustice cycle (Thompson, 2015). 


As we celebrate Black History Month 2024, let us immerse ourselves in the diverse symphony of African American contributions to the arts. Through their works, these visionaries have shaped the narrative of Black history and contributed to the universal language of humanity, leaving an indelible imprint on the canvas of our collective consciousness.


 

STILL LOOKING FOR WAYS TO HONOR AND OBSERVE?





 

STILL LOOKING FOR WAYS TO HONOR AND OBSERVE?




 

BLACK HISTORY MONTH RESOURCES FROM THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES 2/9 HUMAN RIGHTS NEWSLETTER:



 

ABOUT THIS GROUP

The Anti-Racism & Social Justice group in North Liberty, Iowa, is open to anyone living, working, learning, worshiping, or with a similar active investment in our city.

 

We envision North Liberty to be a community where every person thrives, belongs, and is celebrated.

   

Through collaboration and connection we:

  • Celebrate diversity

  • Advocate for our neighbors

  • Amplify voices

  • Open hearts to our common humanity

  • And cultivate a culture of kindness

 

Stay connected on Facebook, and reach the group admins by emailing arsjnorthliberty@gmail.com. Visit us online at www.arsjnl.org.



 


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This group's purpose is to pursue anti-racism and social justice in North Liberty, Iowa. It is open to anyone living, working, learning, worshiping, or with a similar active investment in our city.

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