Amherst flag raising begins Black History Month

Date: 1/30/2024

AMHERST — Beginning with the ceremonial raising of the flag, the town of Amherst will celebrate the start of Black History Month at Town Hall on Thursday, Feb. 1. As part of the observance, members of the Town Council will the read the 2024 Black History Month Proclamation.

Following the flag raising, those attending can view the opening of “The Black Experience in Amherst” a self-guided exhibit featuring shared stories and experiences of Amherst’s Black Communities, through a display of historic artifacts and photographs.

All during February, community members are invited and encouraged to visit the commemorative exhibits in town.

In a video invitation, Jennifer Moyston, assistant director for diversity, equity and inclusion, outlined the many events and attractions taking place during the month of February, including the Civil War Tablet Exhibit at the Bangs Community Center.

“This descendent-led tour honors more than 300 soldiers from Amherst including the African American soldiers that served in the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Regiment and 5th Cavalry,” she said.

Ancestral Bridges will present an exhibit of Historical Photographs & Artifacts at the Frost Library, on the campus of Amherst College, the display honors the Black and Afro-Indigenous families of Amherst in the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.

In the atrium of the Jones Library, a display of books and local photos about Black history in Amherst and the Pioneer Valley, as well as in New England and beyond.

On Feb. 29, the National Day of Racial Healing will be observed at the Crocker Farm Elementary School cafeteria featuring small group dialogues on race and identity.

The events are coordinated by the Human Rights Commission, the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the Community Responders for Equity, Safety and Service.

Details on the events throughout Black History Month can be found at engageamherst.org/black-history-month-celebration-2024.