We are excited to announce a series of programs and events in honor and observance of Black History Month. The overarching theme for Forsyth Tech’s celebrations of Dr. Martin Luther, King, Jr. and Black History Month is: The Power to Do, Dream and Believe.

We invite you to join the celebrations of Black History Month at Forsyth Technical Community College happening January 21 – February 21, 2024.

Black History Month Events Calendar

January 21, 2024- February 21, 2024

Triad Cultural Arts “Black History/Green Book” Pop-Up

8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Robert L. Strickland Center Main Lobby/Atrium, Main Campus, 2100 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem

The self-guided MLK Jr. Pop-up Salon will relocate from the Mazie S. Woodruff Center to our Main Campus in late January! This exhibit features artifacts and history, including videos of interviews with local citizens that participated in historical moments in the Civil Rights and Black Liberation Movement. Additionally, The Green Book, which helped African Americans safely navigate the roads of segregated America, will be on display. 

This exhibit is open to the public and free to attend.

February 5, 2024

The Spirit of Harriet Tubman presented by Diane Faison

6 – 7:30 p.m.

Robert L. Strickland Center Auditorium, Main Campus, 2100 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem

“The Spirit of Harriet Tubman” is a one-woman play about the leader of the Underground Railroad starring Diane Faison. Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist and political activist born into slavery in the early 1820s. She is recognized for her commitment to fighting for equality and justice as displayed through her work on the Underground Railroad.

This exhibit is open to the public and free to attend.

February 12, 2024

Sweet Tea: Black Gay Men of The South—An Oral History*

4 p.m.

Rhoades Conference Center, Robert L. Strickland Center, Main Campus, 2100 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem

Forsyth Tech Presents “Sweet Tea: Black Gay Men of The South—An Oral History,” performed by Dr. E. Patrick Johnson. This performance of oral histories is from stories shared by Black Gay men between the ages of 19-93 who were born, raised and continue to live in the South. Dr. Johnson’s performance inspired his full-length script Sweet Tea – A Play. Both works dive into the complexities of coming of age in the South, focusing on religion, sex, transgenderism, love stories and coming out. In his dramatic reading, Dr. Johnson embodies the stories of the people featured in his book. For several years, he has toured college campuses and performed for numerous community groups and special events.

This event is open to the public and free to attend.

*Attendees under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.*

February 19, 2024

Healing Through Art: Exploring Black History, Mental Health, and the Arts with Local Artist Monique Johnson

2 – 4 p.m.

Rhoades Conference Center, Robert L. Strickland Center, Main Campus, 2100 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston-Salem

Join us as we welcome the founder of Made 2 Soar, motivational speaker, and local artist, Monique Johnson, J.D., as we celebrate Black History Month and examine the impact of mental health and the arts on African Americans. Monique seeks to positively impact local, national, and international communities by fostering encouragement and motivation in the lives and areas of students, athletes, corporations, and faith-based groups, understanding that individuals were intentionally created to SOAR beyond their expectations and accomplish greater successes in life.

This event free and is open to Forsyth Tech students, faculty, and staff. Please RSVP here for the event. For more information contact Erica McMahon (emcmahon@forsythtech.edu).

February 21, 2024

Black History Month Keynote Address

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Mazie S. Woodruff Aviation Center, 2739 Aviation Dr., Winston-Salem, NC

Join us as we conclude our celebration of Black History Month with a keynote address by the Honorable Judge Ashleigh Parker of the NC 10th Judicial District. Judge Parker will explore Black history past and present at the Mazie S. Woodruff Aviation Technology Lab. Light Refreshments will be served after the program.

This event is open to the public and free to attend.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Jerisha Farrer at jfarrer@forsythtech.edu.

These programs and events are a collaboration between the Office of Inclusive Excellence, Office of Student Leadership & Engagement, Forsyth Tech Foundation, Office of College Relations, Marketing & Communication and Division of Transfer Excellence & Success.