It’s hard to believe how long Black History Month has been around, since the first Black History Month began back in 1969. If we think back to those times segregation was very real and it was even challenging to walk down the street as a black person. Kent State University started the first event in 69 and then formally celebrated it in 1970. President Gerald Ford formally urged the Nation to recognize the event annually to recognize the many black performers that were neglected for their talents. Black History Month has always been around featuring the talents of black people and so many artists in the community in a variety of arts.
Black History Month really took off around the World in 2018 under Obama Administration and has now expanded to other Nations around the World. My first experience with Black History Month was in February 2020 when I was asked to do a presentation for high school kids with other performers. I didn’t really understand what it was all about but it was a teacher that asked me to come in and do a caricature presentation. I chose five black artists and while drawing their caricatures had them tell me about them.
Since then I have been part of an event each year ranging from black entrepreneur conferences to soca workshops and concert events. It is always interesting to see what people are able to create and much of it is based on funding received by the organization. I don’t sing so what an I hired for? Graphic Recording has been a popular service at the events. I was asked to travel to Windsor Ontario for a three day Black Entrepreneur Conference to graphic record the presentations. I have graphic recorded Black History Month Workshops and drawn caricatures for guests at many of these events. A big thank you to all of the organizations for having me out to your events, they have been a lot of fun.
If you get a chance to attend one of these events then I would highly urge you to do so. Not only is the talent unbelievable but it is one way of making us more inclusive as a community. This year I am working with Waveland for many of the events and you can see there events at www.waveland.ca . I will be drawing caricatures at these events so come by and say hello. Thank you to everyone for having me out and to all the Black Performers for your talent. I think we should do this for all cultures, it would be a great way to learn more about each other. All the best and happy Black History Month.
About the Author
Bruce Outridge Productions offers caricature entertainment for weddings and corporate events. Learn about our wedding, corporate event packages, and other services at www.bruceoutridgeproductions.com
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