The City of Thomasville’s Black History Month celebration begins on Tuesday, February 1st, and continues throughout the month. Celebrated initially as Negro History Week in February of 1926, the annual observance was designated as Black History Month in February of 1976 by President Gerald Ford. The achievements, contributions, and successes of African Americans are recognized throughout the month.
“We are excited to use our various platforms and methods of communication to celebrate Black History Month with our community,” said April Norton, Managing Director of Marketing and Communications. “Throughout the month, we will highlight the central role that African Americans have played in the history of our country and the local community. We will also honor some of the many people that continue to positively impact our community.”
Norton says that this year's national theme, ‘Black Health and Wellness,’ acknowledges the legacy of Black scholars and medical practitioners in Western medicine and the activities, rituals, and initiatives that Black communities have positively implemented. “In keeping with this year’s theme, the City’s Facebook page will highlight some of the historically important African Americans in the Thomasville medical community throughout the month,” said Norton. “These educational posts will pay tribute to some of the original local leaders whose impact on our community’s health and wellness is still recognized today.”
The City will also host its weekly Black History Month trivia contest on its Facebook page throughout the month. “Our Black History Month weekly trivia contests have become a very popular feature of our celebration,” said Norton. “The contest offers us an opportunity to educate and interact with the public while celebrating the rich African American history of our country and the local community.” Citizens that correctly post the answer in the Comments of the Facebook post will be entered into a random drawing to win a weekly gift basket. The baskets are sponsored by the Thomas County Branch of the NAACP, Equity in Action, Thomas County Public Library, Jack Hadley Black History Museum, and the City of Thomasville.
According to Christy Owens, Main Street and Special Events Manager, the Downtown Thomasville Facebook page will also participate in the City’s Black History Month celebration. “Throughout February, the Downtown Thomasville Facebook page will highlight local African American business owners,” said Owens. “The spotlights will be a fitting tribute to the many African Americans that strive to make a difference in our community through their businesses and community involvement.”
The Visitors Center Facebook page, Visit Thomasville, will highlight local Black achievers in our community. “We partnered with the Jack Hadley Black History Museum to gather information on local African American’s whose influence has shaped our community,” said Bonnie Hayes, Tourism & Event Venues Manager. “We’re excited to share information about these important individuals all month.”
Visitors and locals will notice a special Black History Month banner displayed prominently at Broad Street and Smith Avenue to mark the month-long celebration. “While visiting downtown, locals and visitors are encouraged to take a historical walking tour of the 200 and 300 block of West Jackson Street,” said Owens. “The walking tour provides an educational opportunity to learn the documented history of The Bottom and the business establishments through our Commemorative Wall and sidewalk plaques.”
Since March of 2020, the City has valued the importance of adaptability, flexibility, and change while scheduling City-sponsored events, a need that continues in 2022. “In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Black History Month Planning Committee decided not to move forward with the Black History Month Parade and Celebration originally scheduled for Saturday, February 12th,” said Owens. “Safety for the community is the top priority for the City and the Committee. The City fully supports Black History Month and the committee’s decision for the best plan of action for this year’s event.” The Black History Month Planning Committee is comprised of community members and city staff.
CNSNext will honor Black History Month by re-airing the 2020 Black History Month Parade and Celebration. It will also treat viewers to a re-airing of The Bottom Documentary Stores and Stories of West Jackson Street.
The City plans to continue its recognition of Black History through its continued partnership and support of the Juneteenth Celebration. “Collaborating with the Juneteenth Committee this summer provides us with multiple opportunities throughout the year to celebrate Black History with our local community,” said Owens. “Support of the Juneteenth Celebration through our operational and communication resources allows us to play a small role in a wonderful community-wide event.”
“We appreciate the efforts of the Black History Month Planning Committee and our many community partners that help make our Black History Month Celebration what it is,” said Norton. “Through their support and assistance, we are able to continue to find innovative ways to celebrate and grow the annual observance of Black History Month.”
The City’s Black History Month social media celebrations begin this week and will continue throughout the month on the City of Thomasville, Visit Thomasville, and Downtown Thomasville Facebook pages. For the most up to date information or to learn more about events in downtown Thomasville, visit downtownthomasville.com or call the Thomasville Visitors Center at 229-228-7977.