Wilmington, Delaware, is observing Black History Month this February with various events. Mayor Mike Purzycki declared February as Black History Month in Wilmington. This declaration was made on Bob Marley’s birthday, a reggae music pioneer and former Wilmington resident. The Mayor urged Wilmington’s residents to appreciate the richness of African American history and culture. He stated that Black history is part of American history and the contributions of African Americans should be acknowledged all year round.
This year’s Black History Month theme is ‘African Americans and the Arts’. Mayor Purzycki pointed out the city’s history of notable African American artists. He named local figures like Clifford Brown, Edward Loper, Percy Ricks, Bette Roché, Wilby Fletcher, Alice Dunbar Nelson, Cab Calloway, and others who have influenced Wilmington’s arts scene.
Mayor Purzycki and Cultural Affairs Director Tina Betz have invited the public to the Urban Artist Exchange at 1509 Clifford Brown Walk for Black History Month celebrations. Free family events will be held every Saturday in February, featuring Black history stories, drumming, crafts, music, performances, and vendors. These events will occur regardless of weather conditions.