Whaling National Park to celebrate Black History Month. Here's what's happening this month
NEW BEDFORD — New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration of Black History Month this month.
This year, the park will be kicking off the month’s free festivities on Saturday, Feb. 3, at 1 p.m., with award-winning poet and author, Iva Brito.
"I'm honored to be kicking off the month for Black History Month with the national parks, and it's even more special for me because of my previous role as an artist in residence,” said Brito.
“I celebrate black history all year round, not just in February, so it's fitting for me to share my art with the community that I love."
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As a native of Cabo Verde, West Africa and the author of the poetry book "Essence, Tones, Whispers and Shouts," Brito shares her journey as an artist and how she incorporates Black history into her work through various mediums, including poetry, visual arts and event organizing.
She believes that art is a powerful means of celebrating and showcasing the challenges and triumphs of the Black community.
"Part of what I will be doing on Saturday is sharing my experiences and the failures in our history that have influenced and taught me,” Brito said.
“I hope that those in attendance will leave feeling inspired, and with the desire to create."
Brito invites all to have an open conversation
Brito also hopes to create a space for community and dialogue at the event, where people can come together and have meaningful conversations about the intersections of art, culture, and politics.
"I see this event as a vehicle for discussing and exploring the different factors that shape our world,” Brito added.
“It's important to have these conversations and consider different perspectives, and I believe that art is a perfect medium for this."
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The Whaling National Park has always been a progressive space for people to talk about struggle and societal issues, according to Brito, adding that it's a privilege to be a part of it and contribute to the ongoing dialogue.
"We still have a lot of work to be done, but I am proud of our community and the people that work hard to make it a better place,” she said.
“I see how, in times of struggle and conflict, we come together and support each other. This is something that sets our community apart from others, and I am proud to be a part of it."
Black History Month plans at the Whaling National Park
In addition to her personal works, Brito has also been a contributing author in the anthology, "Cabo Verdean Women Writing Remembrance, Resistance, and Revolution." It's a collection of stories and poems showcases the voice of Cabo Verdean women and their struggle for self-identity and liberation.
She was also chosen as a featured artist in the Women Anthem “Take Back the Power” music video, a partnership with the National Park, celebrating the 100th anniversary of women's right to vote in 2020.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this event and share my art with my community. I hope to see everyone at the Whaling National Park on Saturday, as we come together to celebrate and appreciate the richness of black history," Brito added.
Artist Eden Soares Feb. 10
On Saturday, Feb.10, the park will welcome local artist Eden Soares, also known as trigrfx. Soares uses his murals and other forms of art to tell the stories of New Bedford’s culture and history.
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He has gained recognition for his colorful and captivating murals depicting figures such as Booker T. Washington and Cesaria Evora. Now, he will have the opportunity to share his work and inspiration with the community during Black History Month.
According to Soares, being able to share his art at the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park is an opportunity to connect with the community and showcase the diversity and vibrancy of African American culture.
“I am proud to be a part of this year’s celebration and to use my art to celebrate and honor the rich history and culture of black Americans,” Soares added.
Whaling National Park to screen '12 Years a Slave'
On Feb. 17, the park will host an event featuring the 1850 Ladies; Ruth and Abby, who will explore the role of craft and art in the abolitionist movement. The 1850 Ladies will share stories of how Boston and New Bedford anti-slavery societies used crafting to raise money and promote their cause.
Attendees will also have the chance to view and learn about handcrafts and quilts that were sold during abolitionist fairs, as well as hear stories of women from New Bedford who were instrumental in the fight against slavery.
On Feb. 24, the park will screen and discuss the movie, "12 Years A Slave," directed by Steve McQueen. The film tells the story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the 1840s. Through his struggle for survival and freedom, the film sheds light on the harsh realities of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit.
Standard-Times staff writer Seth Chitwood can be reached at schitwood@s-t.com. Follow him on twitter: @ChitwoodReports. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Standard-Times today.
This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: Whaling National Park in New Bedford celebrates Black History Month
