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All February long, Black History Month celebrates the considerable accomplishment of Black people nationwide. This is our official guide to the people and stories we're following this month. 

Originally created by Carter G. Woodson in 1926, the observance began as “Negro History Week” until 1976, when it was expanded to the entire month of February and acknowledged as one of the nation's bicentennial celebrations. During this time, Americans of all races and ethnic backgrounds are encouraged to recognize and honor the considerable contributions Black individuals and organizations have made—and continue to make daily—through various outlets, including dramatic and visual arts, live performances, civic leadership, athletics, food, and much more. 

As we continue to bear witness to ongoing racial issues dividing the country, every year, February marks a pivotal moment in the nation's history to recognize how we can all improve. And, that social and political issues such as critical race theory, police brutality, and economic inequality are still unresolved hot-button issues resonating throughout the country. 

To honor Black History Month, we've rounded up a wide array of stories about Black individuals and groups with Houston connections. We hope you will be as interested in learning about them as we are in sharing them with you. 

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Arts

4 African-American Artists Who Significantly Shaped Houston

Houston's artistic landscape is influenced by the Black community who largely contributed to it. Meet four artists who transformed Houston for the better.

New Documentary Highlights Top Marching Bands "Road to Houston"

Battle of the Bands takes center stage in this new docuseries highlighting HBCUs and the journey to the coveted competition. 

5 Essential Publications to Read During Black History Month

During Black History Month, learn about Houston in a refreshing new way, from new perspectives on Black life, reports on the Texas Southern Riots, and anecdotes on Fifth Ward. 

Fifth Ward Takes Center Stage at The MAG's Southern Glory Show

As Prauper’s third exhibition focused on Houston culture, Southern Glory shines a spotlight on Black American life in Houston post World War II.

 

Robert Glasper to Headline First Weekend of Jazzy Sundays in the Park

The Grammy Award-winning musician is kicking off this year's Jazzy Sundays in the Park alongside Hutson Percussion & Friends. 

 

Eat & Drink

Houstonia’s Guide To Dining for Black History Month

From cajun to West Indian cuisine, Houston’s got it all.

10 of Houston's Best Soul Food Restaurants

Soul food is rich with flavor and history, and we've created a definitive guide to get your fix in Houston. 

Chris Williams Is In A Lane Of His Own

Williams has turned his Museum District restaurant into one of the best restaurant’s in Houston serving southern cuisine.

Dawn Burrell Returns for Top Chef: All Stars

Houston Chef and former Olympian Dawn Burrell will make her return to Top Chef, this time for Top Chef All Stars. The Houstonian will head to London to compete against some of the world's most renowned chefs. 

Events & Celebrations

15 Ways To Celebrate Black History Month This February

Whether you’re an amateur artist, theater lover, or bookworm, there’s something for everyone.

Lifestyle

 

Houston Man Plans to Close the Wealth Gap

Tedrick Derosin, cofounder of the One Percent Club in Houston is helping build generational wealth in the city and beyond. 

Local Fashion Mogul Teams with Nike for Limited Edition Shoe

When Houston native Jennifer Ford opened Premium Goods in Houston in 2004, that shoe community changed for the better. Now, she has a limited edition shoe collaboration with Nike.

 

George Floyd's Legacy Lives

George Perry Floyd's brother, Philonise, is working to keep his brother's name alive in the almost three years after his death through a new organization, PAKIFSC.

History

Gentrification Spreads Through Houston's Oldest Communities

As the population in Houston continues to boom, it's had adverse effects on small communities. Gentrification directly affects historic neighborhoods including Third Ward, Sunnyside, and Freedmen's Town. 

Black Cowboys: The Unsung American Hero

The history of cowboys runs deep in the Lone Star State and begins with Black wranglers and ranch hands.

Back to Eldorado: A Historic Houston Ballroom Will be Reborn

Located on the corner of Elgin Street and Emancipation Avenue, the Eldorado Ballroom was founded in 1939 by Anna and Clarence Dupree as one of the first African American clubs in Houston.

Sports

Astros Hire Dana Brown as New General Manager

The former Atlanta Braves executive is packing his bags and headed to H-Town. More importantly, he's the only Black GM in Major League Baseball. 

Houston Native Michael Strahan Tackles Yet Another Accomplishment

Texas Southern University graduate and Hall of Famer Michael Strahan whose done incredible work on and off the field. Now, he's got a Hollywood Star on the Walk of Fame. 

Texans Get Their Man as DeMeco Ryan Returns to Houston

The former All-Pro Texans linebacker has touched down in Houston once again. This time, as the Texans' new head coach. 

Five Things You Didn't Know About Jalen Hurts

The Eagles star quarterback Jalen Hurts is from Channelview. Find out more about his life growing up in Houston.