Celebrate Black History Month

Celebrate Black History Month


Black History Honor Roll

Black History Month Honor Roll

The Wake Forest Human Relations Council (HRC) is celebrating Black History Month in 2023 by again offering residents the chance to recognize local African Americans who have made a difference enhancing and improving the quality of life in their community, family, church, business, organization or other group.

From now through Saturday, Jan. 14, 2023, the HRC will accept nominations for Wake Forest residents to be recognized for their contributions. 

Wake Forest residents, former residents, and business and community stakeholders that identify as African American are eligible. Nominees should demonstrate leadership and integrity and be respected by their peers. In addition, potential nominees may be recognized for one or more of the following actions:

  • Helping neighbors and fellow Wake Forest citizens;

  • Demonstrating hospitality and/or concern for others;

  • Supporting local businesses and charities;

  • Promoting a sense of community in their neighborhood and beyond;

  • Serving the community through their school, church, business or community organization.

 

Walking ToursBlack History Month Walking Tours
Thursdays in February ~ 1 pm

The Town of Wake Forest will offer free Black History Month Walking Tours of the Northeast Community every Thursday in February at 1 p.m.

Pre-registration is required. Space is limited to the first 15 participants to sign up for each tour.

Led by staff from Historic Preservation Planning and the Wake Forest Historical Museum, the tours will include Olive Branch Baptist Church, Alston-Massenburg Center, the newly restored Ailey Young House, the African American Cemetery, and more. Along the way, each group will discuss the developmental and architectural history of the area, along with the significant men and women who shaped the Northeast Community. Tours are outside only and will not include the inside of individual homes or buildings.

Each tour is approximately 90 minutes and will begin at Taylor Street Park, 416 N. Taylor St., proceed south to East Spring Street, west to North White Street, north to East Juniper Avenue and east back to Taylor Street Park.

For complete details, visit our website or contact Michelle Michael at 919-435-9516.

 

Rosa ParksRosa Parks & Friends
Saturday, Feb. 4 ~ 11 am
Alston-Massenburg Center, 416 N. Taylor St.

Presented by Bright Star Theatre, Rosa Parks & Friends takes the audience on an amazing journey through time with Rosa Parks where some of the most remarkable figures in history come to life.

This show gives a remarkable view of the challenges met by these amazing Black Americans.

This free performance is presented by a grant from the United Arts Council for our Arts For All series of free art experiences.

For more information, email Debra Horton.

 

Proclamations

In December 2020, Mayor Vivian Jones visited the homes of Dianne Laws, Evelyn Jones and Roger Shackleford where she read proclamations recognizing each one for their contributions to our community. Staff video recorded these presentations which were shown during the regular Board of Commissioners meeting on January 19, 2021.

Evelyn Jones
Dianne Laws
Roger Shackleford
Celebrate Black History Month
Communications & Public Affairs Director
919-435-9421
919-761-3719