Aurora in Black: Black History Month 2023

Aurora In Black 2023
From the first Black settlers in Aurora just prior to the Civil War to the contemporary Black leaders of the state's second-largest city, the story of Black Aurora is intrinsically interwoven into the story of the City of Lights.  

'Aurora in Black' isn't just about one month, but rather a consistent movement that is highlighted during this month. It is a vibrant reality of Aurora's Black community -  every day, every month, every year. 

Join us for several events (and the list will continue to grow all month) honoring Black History, Present, and Future: 
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The BLACK WEALTH EMPOWERMENT SERIES is a series of three virtual workshops followed by a Community Expo and celebration hosted by The Neighbor Project and Everlasting Word Church.  For more info, call 331-300-3566. 

Public Art

The City of Aurora's Public Art Department features the works of three BLACK TRAILBLAZERS IN AURORA, beginning the First Friday in February with an Opening Reception from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.  at 20 E. Downer Place. 

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The Quad County African American Chamber of Commerce's 14th annual JAZZ BRUNCH AND SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS is SOLD OUT!

APL Black Family Jeopardy

The Aurora Public Library hosts BLACK HISTORY MONTH FAMILY JEOPARDY! Show off your knowledge of African-American history to win a prize! Registration required www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/event/7757383

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The inaugural MR. AND MISS BLACK AURORA PAGEANT hosted by the Aurora African American Heritage Advisory Board is SOLD OUT!

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Alderman and Author Sherman Jenkins takes us on a riveting journey of AFRICAN AMERICANS IN AURORA FROM 1921 TO 1955 at the Aurora Public Library on Monday, February 6 at 7 p.m. 

Movie Mondays

The Paramount Theatre will feature Black cinema classic during Movie Mondays in February. Tickets are only $1 per person and concessions will be open. Pick a Monday night (or all four) and enjoy!

Dr. Barber Benedictine

Benedictine University hosts its annual free Black History Public Lecture Series with Rev. Dr. William Barber, Director of Public Theology and Policy at Yale University.  Registration is required at www.ben.edu. 

Farewell Fred

He is one Aurora's trailblazing icons, and we will come together to honor his life and legacy.  The In Memoriam Tribute for Fred Rodgers is on Friday, February 10 at Cathedral of Grace St. John AME Church in Aurora. 

Cathedral of Grace

The Black History Month line-up a Cathedral of Grace | St. John is always one the fills the spirit and soul! There are three dynamic speakers on 2/12, 2/19, and 2/26 and the annual Dreamers Wax Museum on 2/26. 

IMSA

The Illinois Math and Science Academy hosts THE HBCU EXPERIENCE, a conversation with alumni about their HBCU journey.  Join the Zoom conversation at https://www.imsa.edu/academics/library/the-hbcu-experience/


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The 17th annual AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE DINNER will honor the leader of the year, Dr. Jennifer Norrell, the Lifetime Achievement Honoree, Servant George Rayford and Nia Award Recipients Katrina Boatright and David Smith - along with presenting thousands of dollars in scholarships to local youth!  Get your tickets (almost sold out) and secure your sponsorship at www.aurora-il.org/AAHAB

Dreamers Wax Museum

Watch our amazing youth bring historical Black figures to life at the DREAMERS WAX MUSEUM hosted Agape Connection!  You don't want to miss this amazing event on Sunday, February 26 at 12 p.m.  Register at [email protected] or 847.302.5363

Submit your event for consideration by sending information, including graphics, to [email protected]