LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – Reserve Springs hosted its 15th annual Black History Month Festival on Saturday – celebrating black culture in Southern Nevada.
Organizer Corey Enos explained that the age-old tradition aims to entertain, educate and celebrate the contributions of African Americans across the country and in the Valley.
“A lot of people think there's no culture in Southern Nevada, but we have one of the most vibrant and unique cities in the entire world, and the trajectory in that city has been influenced by African Americans,” Enos said.
The event featured speakers, music and educational opportunities that highlighted past and present African American leaders and their impact on Las Vegas.
This year's theme was “African Americans and the Arts” and featured works by local artists showcasing black culture in the community.
Artist Courtney Haywood is featured in an exhibition from ThirtyThree Gallery. He had three pieces on display, one of which was a note on lined paper, and an open letter to Haywood's 15-year-old son “to give him advice as a black man navigating this world,” Haywood explained.
The event highlighted a 30-year gathering place to recognize the contributions of the West Las Vegas Center for the Arts, which prides itself on a rites of passage program that emphasizes discipline and stems from the principles of Kwanzaa. The event also featured art performances from groups including Live Arts Creative.
They are honored to continue the legacy and work,” said Avery Walker, director of Live Arts Collective. “We are proud of our community and always do our best to represent it,” he said.
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