By Loretta Fulton

Abilenians will have numerous opportunities to observe Black History Month throughout February.

Curtis House Cultural Center, 630 Washington St., features displays and memorabilia highlighting the contributions of Blacks to the history of Abilene. Andrew Penns, founder and director of the center, said a new exhibit features the football teams that played for Carter G. Woodson High School.

The February heritage exhibition at the Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St., highlights Black history in Abilene. It will run through Feb. 29. A blurb on the museum’s website explains:

“The exhibition will discuss various issues that Blacks have faced within the Abilene community such as segregation and desegregation, constant hardships, black leaders who have persevered, and the push for success within their own community.”

This exhibition was curated by Maia Bell with students Bree McCarthy Reese, Joyce Monene, Ja’Kaylon Sabbath, and Jeremiah Taylor through Dr. Amanda Biles’s Introduction to Public History: Interpreting American Pasts course at Abilene Christian University. The Grace Museum is collaborating with ACU to create monthly exhibitions that coincide with different cultural heritage months throughout the year. These exhibitions highlight the narratives of various cultural groups that are integral to Abilene’s history while weaving these stores into the broader historical fabric of the United States.

Hardin-Simmons and Abilene Christian universities have several events planned to celebrate Black History Month. At Hardin-Simmons on Feb. 16, a movie will be shown and hot chocolate served. Feb. 23 is “Fitted Friday.” A “Black is everything” dinner is planned fo Feb. 29.

ACU has numerous events planned, with the following open to the public:

• Feb. 19 – Chapel with Dr. Brandon Jones, “Made for this Moment” – Empowering believers to understand that God has endowed all of us with gifts to glorify the kingdom (Matthew 26:36-44). Moody Coliseum 11 a.m
• Feb. 26 – Chapel with Rev. Jessica Kemp, “The Notorious Christian” – Your past does not disqualify you for acceptance into God’s kingdom (Matthew 9). Moody Coliseum 11 a.m.
• March 1 – AFRAM Festival, featuring food, games and performances. ACU campus mall area 6 p.m.

Loretta Fulton is creator and editor of Spirit of Abilene