The Cambridge Public Library Celebrates Black History Month with Musical Performances, Poetry Readings, Cooking Program, and Walking Tour

The Cambridge Public Library will host several events in February to celebrate Black History Month. Throughout the month, programs will highlight Black poetry, musical traditions, and cuisine to celebrate Black heritage and culture.

Jazz in Conversation with Poetry: On Wednesday, February 7, the Library will kick off Black History Month with an event that will explore the intersection of jazz and poetry. Poet Tatiana Johnson-Boria will join the Joel LaRue Trio in a conversation between jazz music and poetry. This event is hybrid, and registration is required.

Cambridge Cooks with Coast Café: On Tuesday, February 20, the Library’s February installation of its popular Cambridge Cooks program will welcome Chef Anthony Brooks from local staple, Coast Café, to bring a taste of Southern cooking to Cambridge. Registration is required.

Mount Auburn Cemetery Black History Walking Tour Reception: On Wednesday, February 28 from 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m., join us at the Collins Branch to celebrate Black History Month and learn more about the Black men and women buried at Mount Auburn Cemetery. We will be distributing copies of our Black History Walking Tour of Mount Auburn Cemetery guide developed by librarians and cemetery staff. Pick up your copy of our walking tour and a warm beverage and take a self-guided stroll of the cemetery. Learn more here.

Exploring Opera, Art Song, and the Harlem Renaissance: On Thursday, February 29, from 6-7:30 p.m., the Library will offer a special preview of Opera on Tap’s upcoming show, “Opera, Art Song, and the Harlem Renaissance: Celebrating Black Excellence.” Some of Boston’s finest classical singers will explore music born of and inspired by the vibrant Harlem Renaissance while diving deep into the narratives of Black musicians, poets and composers. The dialogue will delve into the cultural tapestry of this influential era, highlighting the profound impact it has had on the world of classical music. This event is hybrid, and registration is required.

"The program was conceptualized and curated by soprano Nina Evelyn and the repertoire, selected by the artists themselves, encompasses a rich array of styles and texts, and showcases the significant impact the Harlem Renaissance had in shaping the classical music landscape," says Kathryn McKellar, Director of the Opera on Tap Boston. 

Looking to discover more inspiring and unique Black History Month stories? Explore the Cambridge African American History Trail. Visit https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/8bef5754e45d4d4199649f058574f6ca and learn more about twenty of Cambridge's most important Black leaders.

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About the Cambridge Public Library: 
At the Cambridge Public Library, we welcome all, inspire minds, and empower community. We support a Cambridge where everyone has equitable opportunities to learn, people live their best lives and democracy thrives. The Library’s programming provides an opportunity for civic dialogue, conversation, and learning, which includes exploring a wide range of views. Visit our website to learn more. Subscribe to our email list to stay up to date on our events here. 

The City of Cambridge does not discriminate, including on the basis of disability. We may provide auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative formats, and reasonable modifications in policies and procedures to people with disabilities. For more information, contact us at library@cambridgema.gov, 617-349-4032 (voice), or via relay at 711.