History in the making

First created in 1969 by students and teachers at Kent State University, Black History Month is all about honoring the people and stories of the African diaspora and combating the whitewashing of American history. This month, there are plenty of opportunities to learn about and celebrate black history, art and culture in Sacramento. Check out these events, coming up soon:

Black Trivia & Game Night, Feb. 7

Here’s a chance to test your knowledge, and maybe pick up some new things along the way. Greater Sacramento Urban League Young Professionals are capping off their annual “Join Week” with black trivia this Friday at Cafe Bernardo. There will be food and drinks for purchase, and when trivia’s over, you can stick around for some good old- fashioned card games. Cafe Bernardo R15, 1431 R St.; Event is free; joinyp.org.

Legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers, Feb. 11

You can never absorb enough history, so why not stop by the Brickhouse Gallery for a panel and discussion all about the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers? It’s organized by the Unsung Heroes Living History Project, which aims to share the stories of African Americans in the military. Meet the Buffalo Soldiers—members of several segregated Army cavalry regiments who fought for the Union during the Civil War, and learn about their experiences. The Brickhouse Gallery & Art Complex, 2837 36th St.; Event is free; thebrickhouseartgallery.com.

Boots Riley, Feb. 13

Sacramento State has quite a few events planned in support of Black History Month. There are a couple of movie screenings, a comedy show, plus a concert with musician Dele OG. Super cool stuff. You might be wondering, could it get any cooler? Turns out yes, because Boots Riley, director of Sorry to Bother You, is also making a stop on campus. Swing by the University Union and hear what he has to say. He’ll be giving a lecture you won’t want to miss, all about race, economics and international social justice movements. Sacramento State, 6000 J St.; Event is free; theuniversityunion.com.

When We Were Colored, Feb. 14-Mar. 14

It has been a year since former Sacramento Bee writer Ginger Rutland’s debut play premiered at Sacramento Theatre Company. The story, an adaptation of her mother Eva Rutland’s memoir, traces the intertwining narratives of both mother and daughter living and growing up in 1950s racially segregated Sacramento. Now, the show makes its way to the Guild Theater for a full-month run. Catch this opportunity to see Sacramento history unfold onstage. The Guild Theater, 2828 35th St.; Tickets are $20-$30; guildtheater.com.

Black History Month Family Festival, Feb. 16

We assume you’ve already checked out the Crocker’s current exhibition with artist Akinsanya Kambon, that’s just a given (see page 20). But did you know that the museum will also be hosting a festival in celebration of Black History Month? You did? Well, great! You can expect Kambon to be there, but also keep an eye out for conceptual artist Ise Lyfe, who’ll be giving a talk. Additionally, this year’s festival will feature an all new “Teacher’s Day Out” program, in which resources on African-American history, art and culture will be available for teachers to take back to the classroom. The Crocker Art Museum, 216 O St.; Event is free; crockerart.org.