February marks Black History Month, which means organizations and individuals across the city are taking time to acknowledge and honor people of color's contributions to the rich history of Miami.
Each year, the City of Miami Beach commemorates the occasion with an event designed to bring the community together in celebration. This year, the lively lineup will feature song, dance, poetry, and more.
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The city has been hosting the event for more than five years, says Theresa Buigas-Cedano, a Parks and Recreation analyst. It takes place at the North Shore Park Bandshell. "It's the month out of the year that's been set aside to celebrate black history." Buigas-Cedano says. "It's something we find important in our community, and we want to make the community more aware of our history."
Last year's event drew a sizable crowd -- more than 800 people attended -- says Jackie Gonzalez of the City of Miami Beach. "The cultural performances are done by the City of Miami Beach Parks and Recreation after-school kids," Gonzalez adds. They'll be singing (including the Negro National Anthem), dancing, reading poetry, and otherwise entertaining -- and educating -- the audience.
"We're having guest speakers, we have a guest choir and some singers, and we'll be having music, and some poetry is going to be read. It's just a whole bunch of different little things," Buigas-Cedano says of the evening.
The event runs from 6:30 to 8 p.m. this Friday, February 6, at the North Shore Park Bandshell, 7275 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. It's free and open to the public. Concessions will be available for sale.
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