News Summary
This February, the Memphis Grizzlies are set to celebrate Black History Month with a variety of events ranging from community service initiatives to art exhibits and special game nights. Highlights include the Divine Nine Day of Service, HBCU Empowerment Awards, and a performance titled ‘History in Action’. The Grizzlies aim to honor the achievements of African-Americans and educate the community through engaging activities throughout the month.
Memphis Grizzlies Set to Celebrate Black History Month in a Big Way!
Ah, Memphis! Known for its vibrant culture and rich history, this month is going to shine even brighter as the Memphis Grizzlies pull out all the stops to celebrate Black History Month. From impactful service initiatives to creative displays and exciting games, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy while honoring the achievements of African-Americans.
Festivities Kick Off with Service!
Mark your calendars for February 1st! The festivities will kick off in style with the Divine Nine Day of Service from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at FedExForum. This inaugural event will see volunteers from nine historic Black Greek letter organizations come together with the Grizzlies and Meals of Hope to pack up and distribute meals for families in need throughout the Mid-South. Giving back never felt so good! After the food packing, stick around for a cheerful happy hour to celebrate the community.
Putting the Spotlight on Excellence
Throughout February, the Grizzlies will also honor local community heroes with the HBCU Empowerment Awards. Every home game will feature the recognition of an outstanding individual who graduated from a Historically Black College or University. These remarkable people will be appreciated for their contributions in areas like education, health, and youth development. Each honoree will also have a $5,000 donation made in their name to their alma mater. Now that’s a way to pay it forward!
Art, Culture, and History—Oh My!
But wait, there’s more! Art enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that a special collection from the Withers Collection Museum & Gallery will be on display at FedExForum. Featuring the amazing work of iconic photographer Ernest Withers, this exhibit will share memorable moments in music, sports, and culture that shaped Memphis. Keep your eyes peeled for interactive elements too, making it even more engaging for visitors.
And let’s not forget about the young and talented artists in our community! In a creative twist, thirty basketballs painted by local high school students will be showcased at the arena, following their big reveal during the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration Game.
Special Events Throughout February
As we step deeper into February, the excitement continues with the Black History Night against the San Antonio Spurs on February 3rd. Expect a thrilling evening complete with an HBCU Empowerment Award recipient sharing their inspiring story and some fun Black History Month trivia challenges! It’s a perfect chance to soak in the atmosphere and learn something new together.
On February 8th, children in Shelby County can partake in a live reading session with celebrated African American children’s author Alice Faye Duncan. This fantastic event runs from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. and will focus on the themes of resilience and triumph. All attendees will be lucky enough to take home signed copies of Duncan’s books. This is all part of the Grizzlies’ Read to Achieve program, promoting literacy education in a fun and engaging way.
A Final Celebration
Finally, wrap up the month with a special performance titled “History in Action” on February 28th. Theater students from Memphis-Shelby County Schools will passionately reenact pivotal moments from the lives of influential Black historical figures before the Grizzlies face off against the New York Knicks. The show starts at 5:30 p.m. and will run throughout the first quarter of the game. It’s an inspiring way to blend sports with education!
So, Grizzlies fans and community members, get ready for a fantastic February filled with celebration, reflection, and joy. This month promises to honor the past while inspiring a brighter future right here in our beloved Memphis!
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Additional Resources
- NBA Grizzlies News: Celebrate Black Culture
- Local Memphis: Grizzlies to Celebrate Black Culture
- Urban Milwaukee: Bucks to Celebrate Black History Month
- Commercial Appeal: MLK Day with Grizzlies
- Wikipedia: Black History Month
