Page last updated on January 28, 2025 at 1:34 pm
For more information, please contact
Andrew Shannon, Safe and Civil City Director
andrew.shannon@bloomington.in.gov or 812-349-3559
Desiree DeMolina, Communications Director, Office of the Mayor
comms@bloomington.in.gov or 812-349-3406
The City of Bloomington Announces 2025 Black History Month Celebration
The City of Bloomington invites the community to celebrate Black History Month at the 2025 Kick-Off Event on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at City Hall (401 N. Morton Street). The evening begins with a reception in the Atrium at 4 p.m., followed by a program in Council Chambers at 5 p.m. This free event is open to all.
This year’s theme, “African Americans and Labor: From Slave Ships to the White House,” honors the critical role labor has played in the Black American experience, from the agricultural work of enslaved Africans to the rise of Black Wall Street. It also highlights the contributions of Black Americans to industry, community development, and civil rights movements throughout history.
The kick-off event will feature a panel discussion emceed by Dr. Jessica McClain, Visiting Research Scientist at Indiana University. Panelists include:
- Maurice Johns, Deputy Division Manager, Electromagnetic Warfare Science & Technology Division, NSWC Crane
- Susan Johnson, Director of Grants Administration, Lumina Foundation
- Itia Saahir, Therapist and Owner of Be Finer Marketing
- Don Griffin Jr., Owner and Realtor, Griffin Realty
The City will host several other events throughout February and March to celebrate Black history and culture:
- Black Market on Saturday, February 15, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., City Hall
Celebrate and support Black-owned businesses, creators, and organizations. This event honors the legacy of Bloomington’s original Black Market, destroyed by a firebomb in 1968. - Black History Month Essay Contest Ceremony on Thursday, February 21, 6 p.m., City Hall
Recognizing the outstanding work of young writers in the 2025 Essay Contest. - Black History Month Gala on Saturday, March 1, Monroe Convention Center (302 South College Avenue)
Join us for an elegant evening featuring dining, dancing, and recognition of the 2025 Living Legend recipients and the Commission on the Status of Black Males’ Outstanding Black Leaders of Tomorrow. The reception and silent auction begin at 6 p.m., followed by the program at 7 p.m. Tickets are available starting February 1 at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater, online at bctboxoffice.org, or by phone at 812-323-3020.
For a complete listing of events throughout the month, visit bloomington.in.gov/bhm.
For additional information, contact Safe and Civil City Director Andrew Shannon at andrew.shannon@bloomington.in.gov or by phone at 812-349-3430.