The Livingston Diversity Council, in partnership with Cleary University, will present three Black History Month events this month to recognize and celebrate the contributions of African Americans throughout US history.
These events are open to the entire community:
Flint Institute of Arts (FIA) trip
Friday, Feb. 7
10 am to 3 pm
Tour several new art installations at the FIA, which include Cliff Joseph and the Power of Art, Romare Bearden: Artist as Activist and Visionary, and We Loved the Swag: From Black Bottom Until Now. Following a guided tour of the FIA, the group will travel to nearby Spectacular Spudz for lunch, and then return to Cleary. Cost is $25 a person and includes transportation to and from the FIA via Cleary University vans, a guided tour of the museum and snacks. Lunch is not included. Attendees will depart from Cleary University at 10 am, and return to the university at 3 pm. Cleary is located at 3750 Cleary Drive, off Grand River Avenue and west of Latson Road in Howell. Hurry! Only 30 seats are available for this trip. To purchase a ticket, click here.
“The Hate U Give” Film Screening & Discussion
Friday, Feb. 21
7 pm to 9:30 pm
Historic Howell Theater
The Historic Howell Theater will feature a screening and discussion of the 2018 film, “The Hate U Give,” a story about Starr Carter, who constantly is switching between two worlds – the poor and mostly black neighborhood where she lives – and the wealthy, mostly white prep school that she attends. The uneasy balance between these worlds soon is shattered when she witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend at the hands of a police officer. Facing pressure from all sides of the community, Starr must find her voice and decide to stand up for what’s right. A discussion follows the film. There is no charge for this event, but donations are requested. Doors open at 6:30 pm and the movie starts promptly at 7 pm. The theater is located at 315 E. Grand River in downtown Howell. Reservations are encouraged but not required.
Women in Leadership Lunch and Learn Panel Discussion
Thursday, Feb. 27
Noon to 1 pm
Cleary University
Bring your lunch and listen to a panel discussion celebrating black women in leadership. Three trailblazers from diverse industries will share their experiences, challenges, insights, advice and triumphs. They will talk about strategies for overcoming barriers, the importance of mentorship and the impact of representation in decision-making roles. The audience will have an opportunity to ask questions, share their own stories, exchange ideas and discover how collectively black women can advocate for increased visibility and leadership opportunities.
Panelists include:
- Regina Banks-Hall, Dean of Graduate Studies at Cleary University
- Jennifer Boose, Director of the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services
- Kelly Garrett, Mayor of Lathrup Village
- Sonya Hollins, Author & Nonprofit Leader
There is no charge, and no reservations are needed for this event, but donations are welcome. The lunch and learn discussion will take place in Cleary Commons, the first building to the right when you enter the university off Grand River Avenue.
For information on these events, visit the Livingston Diversity Council website.
