How to Honor Black History Month in Columbus

Since its designation in 1976, the United States has celebrated Black History Month annually in February. President Gerald Ford called upon the country to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” In Columbus, there are plenty of ways to do just that. Below, we’ve rounded up a number of events, exhibitions and activities for people of all ages to help you get started.

CBUS Soul Sculpture Trail

Daily

In partnership with the Greater Columbus Arts Council, this trail explores sculptures throughout Columbus from African American artists Melvin Edwards, Chief Baba Shongo Obadina, Andrew F. Scott, Omar Shaheed, Bill Agnew, Barbara Chavous, Larry Winston Collins, LaVerne Brown. Each artist on this tour not only celebrates the African American culture but also contributes heavily to the progression of the arts by engaging young African Americans to make their own contributions to their communities and/or art history.      

All Arts Day: A Celebration of Aminah Robinson

Feb. 14 | King Arts Complex 

Join The King Arts Complex to celebrate one of Columbus’ great visual artists, Aminah Robinson. The program is an opportunity for people of all ages to connect with local artists and be inspired by Aminah’s rich contributions to the Arts. All Arts Day is a free, community event. Surround yourself with inspiration and storytelling with themed projects inspired by her work. Kick-start your imaginations with prompts designed for a wide range of ages, abilities, and materials. 

Hanby House in Westerville

Guided and Self-Guided Tours Available

Learn about Benjamin Hanby, an abolitionist and composer, whose family lived in the home from 1853-1870. The family moved to Westerville because his father helped to establish Otterbein University. The Hanby House is managed locally by the Westerville Historical Society. To schedule an appointment to tour the site, please email WHSpres@westervillehistory.org.

Columbus Black History Tours

Upon Request Pending Availability

Learn the ins and outs of Columbus' Black History with tour guide, author and local historian, Rita Fuller-Yates. Uncover the history of notable buildings such as the Lincoln Theatre, the Pythian Theater, St. Paul African Episcopal Methodist Church and more. Tours are available virtually at any time or in person for groups pending availability. 

Long Street Cultural Wall

Daily

Take a stroll along the Long Street Cultural Wall on the bridge connecting the Near East Side to Downtown Columbus. This collaboration by local artists Kojo Kamau and Larry Winston Collins features a combination of photography and block prints, providing an educational walk through Columbus' Black History. 

Washington Gladden Social Justice Park

Daily

Visit the first park in the nation dedicated to the theme of social justice, located downtown at the corner of Broad Street and Cleveland Avenue. Designed to bring Columbus together to build the path to a better future through art, education and constructive dialogues, the park serves as an introduction to Columbus’ social justice pioneers. 

Black History Month Event Series at Ohio Statehouse

Tuesdays at Noon in Feb.

In honor of Black History Month, the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board is hosting a series of free, 45-minute presentations every Tuesday at noon in the Atrium in collaboration with different groups. Each session will include up to 15 minutes for Q&A with the speaker or performer. 

Columbus Metropolitan Library Events

Dates and times vary based on Columbus Library branch | See library locations and events list here.

The Columbus Metropolitan Library offers a diverse range of events to celebrate Black History Month, with activities taking place at 23 different branches. More details to be announced.

Ohio History Center Events

Dates and times vary based on the event | Ohio History Center

The Ohio History Connection is hosting events at the Ohio History Center and its other locations honoring Black History Month. Check out the link below to view the full list.