Historians, art and culture experts will lead an interactive discussion Feb. 21 in Falls Church to probe how Black history and the arts challenge stereotypes, promote truth and foster a just and inclusive society.
“Voices of Resilience: Embracing Black History and the Arts, From Insight to Action” will be held from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, at Meridian High School, 121 Mustang Alley. The program is sponsored by the Social Justice Committee of Falls Church and Vicinity, an initiative of the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation of Falls Church.
The afternoon features four presenters, small group discussions, musical performances, a poetry reading and tours of the Marian Costner Selby Peace Garden and Exhibit at the high school. Ms. Selby is the first African American student to attend the former George Mason High School in 1961 and the first Black graduate in 1964.
Members of the panel are Dwandalyn R. Reece, PhD, executive committee chair of the National Museum of African American History, where she also serves as curator of music and performing arts. She will be joined by Spencer Crew, PhD, a George Mason University professor who researches enslavement, the underground railroad, civic engagement and museums.
The two other panelists are Audrey Davis, director of the Alexandria Black History Museum. and Irene Chambers, board member of the Tinner Hill Heritage Foundation. Inga A. Watkins, J.D., a member of the Social Justice Committee, will moderate the program.
Angelique Palmer, poet laureate of Fairfax County, will present a reading. During tours of the Marian Costner Selby Peace Garden, three artists will detail their contributions to the exhibit, Asia Anderson, Roxanne Kaylor and James Hallock.
The symposium is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served. Attendees are asked to register at Embracing-Black-History-Arts.eventbrite.com. For further information, visit www.tinnerhill.org and the Tinner Hill Facebook page.
Members of the Chi Beta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. also are partnering to host the event.