Hanscom celebrates Black History Month

  • Published
  • By Capt. Robert Brown
  • 850th electronic Systems Group
February is Black History Month -- a national celebration of black Americans' contributions to society.

Established in 1976, Black History Month evolved from Negro History Week, which was established in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a noted black author and scholar. This year's theme is, "Carter G. Woodson and the Origins of Multiculturalism," in his honor.

To celebrate Black History Month, the Hanscom community will host special events throughout this month.

· Feb. 5: The opening event will be a food tasting, held at the chapel from 12 to 1:30 p.m.
· Feb. 13: A health screening event, highlighting health concerns prevalent in the black community, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Base Exchange vendor area and will include blood pressure screening and information regarding uterine fibroids. A prostate cancer screening van will also be available in the parking lot.
· Feb. 15: "The Great Debaters," will be shown at the Base Theater at 7:30 p.m. The drama is based on the true story of Melvin B. Tolson, a professor at Wiley College in Texas. In 1935, Mr. Tolson inspired students to form the school's first debate team, which went on to challenge Harvard in the national championship. An admission fee is required.
· Feb 21: The Hanscom community is invited to visit the National Heritage Museum in Lexington, MA. The National Heritage Museum is an American history museum founded and supported by Scottish rite freemasons in the Northern Masonic jurisdiction of the United States. Departure time will be announced the week prior to the event.
· Feb. 28: The Base Library will host a youth book reading and arts and crafts activity from 2 to 3 p.m.

For more information call (781) 377-0337 or e-mail Robert.Brown@hanscom.af.mil.