The John P. "Top" Greene Community Center in Raleigh is set to be a hub of activity this February, as the facility hosts a series of events to celebrate Black History Month. The month-long program is designed to shine a light on the significant contributions of the African American community, with a focus on the historical tapestry woven through the years in East Raleigh's South Park neighborhood.
According to an announcement shared by the City of Raleigh, the series includes "Centuries in the Making," a curated exhibit that tracks the journey of African Americans in the area and their enduring legacy. Participants are invited to partake in "Museum Mornings," which will feature free coffee and cultural discussions each Friday in February from 11 a.m. to noon. The aim is to unravel the narratives behind the museum's exhibitions and celebrate the lives they represent.
In addition, community members can engage in genealogy classes every Saturday, led by Tanya Foreman of Family Matters Genealogy. These hands-on sessions, as highlighted on the City of Raleigh website, promise to provide an introduction to ancestry research, inviting attendees to trace their roots and preserve their family legacy. From beginners to intermediates, the classes are structured to guide everyone through the complex tapestry of their heritage.
Another key event is the Senior Resource Fair, slated for Thursday, Feb. 20, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., which will serve as a nexus for seniors to access information integral to health, wellness, and financial literacy. Similarly designed to stitch together creativity and history, "Sewing Vintage" on Saturday, Feb. 22, from noon to 2 p.m., will celebrate the historical significance of sewing in African American communities while teaching vintage-inspired techniques.
