Black History Month is a dedicated period in February where the United States recognizes and celebrates the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history, highlighting their struggles, resilience, and cultural impact on society.
Within Delaware, several important Black history events stand out, including the prominent role of the Underground Railroad, particularly in the town of Odessa, where a network of safe houses aided enslaved people seeking freedom in the North; the activism of prominent figures like L.A. “Spud” Webb, a professional basketball player from Wilmington who became a symbol of perseverance; and the legacy of the “Colored School No. 1” in Dover, a historically significant school that played a crucial role in educating Black children during segregation.
Learn more Delaware Black History on the Delaware Historical Society Website
Below are some events and resources to help you observe Black History Month. If you have an item you would like to see added to this page, please email us.
Events
Kent County
City of Dover City Wide Black History Celebration
The Tenth Annual Citywide Black History Celebration is a series of events highlighting local Black history, culture, art, music, and dance.
find out more
Sussex County
SDARJ African American Film Festival
February 20-22 at the Cinema Arts Theater
The Rehoboth Beach Film Society and its partner the Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice (SDARJ) will present the 7th Annual Rehoboth Beach Black American Film Festival.
find out more
SDARJ Celebration to Honor Black History Month Featuring the Twin Poets
Friday February 28th at 7:00 PM, Epworth Methodist Church
Performers include: Delaware’s Poet Laureates, (The Twin Poets), Praise Choir of Friendship Baptist Church in Lewes, The Alliance Singers of Camp Rehoboth, Step Crew Performance of Omega Psi Phi, Georgetown City Councilmember Rev. Tony Neal, Georgetown, and Gwen Miller Gwen Miller (Lift Every Voice and Sing)
find out more
New Catle County
Black History Celebration: The First 250 Years
Join the Walnut Street YMCA in Wilmington for this popular annual event celebrating Black History Month and local trailblazers. This free event features performances, kids’ activities, and Black-owned businesses and vendors.
find out more
Community Resources
Delaware LGBTQ+ BIPOC Private Facebook Group
A Private Facebook group the LGBTQ+ Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Community. Join the facebook group at: facebook.com/groups/delawarelgbtqbipoc
Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice
The Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice is a non-partisan organization that educates, informs, and advocates for racial justice, equality, and fair opportunity.
www.sdarj.org
Sussex Pride Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Resources (Sussex Pride BIPOC)
Resources for the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color LGBTQ+ Communities in Delaware
On the Web: www.sussexpride.org/bipoc
On Facebook: www.facebook.com/sussexpridebipoc
On Instagram: www.instagram.com/sussexpridebipoc