Downtown Phoenix has stepped up its Black History Month celebrations with 'CAN I KICK IT,' a unique event featuring film, music, and a spotlight on local black-owned businesses. As reported by AZFamily.com, the festivities took place on Saturday at Civic Space Park and drew hundreds of attendees.
The evening's flagship attraction was a live-scored screening of the blockbuster 'Black Panther,' courtesy of a DJ's turntable skills. "Showing the Black Panther movie, which I love," owner of IV Hydra Health of the Valley, Corlisa Sturdivant told AZFamily.com in an interview. The aim was to create an inclusive environment, as Skyler Scott, Marketing Director at Downtown Phoenix Inc., said, "We can provide an environment that is inclusive and exciting and welcoming, and that anybody can enjoy it." Sturdivant also reflected on the broader significance of the occasion, "I think the whole nation can get together and celebrate black history."
Besides the film experience, the event featured a Buy Black Marketplace with over 20 vendors, a Double Dutch contest, and a cosplay costume competition. These attractions were designed to celebrate the creativity and entrepreneurship within the black community. An enriching trivia segment was also part of the schedule, aimed to educate attendees on the contributions of black Americans to national history.
According to a piece by BNNBreaking, the event encapsulates a dedication to community, diversity, and creativity, honoring the achievements and legacy of Black Americans. The 'Can I Kick It' event strives to be more than just a gathering; it aspires to be a potent expression of unity, with a commitment to fostering connections within diverse populations. It skillfully intertwines economic empowerment through the Buy Black Marketplace with cultural appreciation via film screening and activities.
This new annual happening connects contemporary celebrations with the historic roots of Black History Month, which originated from Carter G. Woodson's establishment of Negro History Week back in 1926. The 'Can I Kick It' event echoes a national call to honor, not only this month but to continually recognize the indelible impact of Black Americans. It’s a movement that intends to inspire future generations toward excellence, resilience, and unity. The gathering in Phoenix stands as a testament to the city's embrace of this legacy, serving as a beacon of remembrance and as an inspiration for the path forward.
