Articles Tagged: Black history

For over 20 years, Buxton thrived as Iowa’s only majority Black city in history. Here’s what historians and authors of books say about it, and what Iowans can learn today from the former Monroe County town.

“What slavery was really about was separating families, about mutilating humans and even raping their wives. It was just devastating,” Scott, the sole Black Republican in the Senate, told reporters on Thursday after a town hall in Ankeny. “So I would hope that every person in our country — and certainly running for president — would appreciate that.”

Ogden column: Not many Black athletes are picking up a ball and glove, but leaders think that could be changing

Iowa City has announced several Black History Month events held this month. The events range from children’s art projects to movie screenings and book club discussions.

The Westerns own one of only about 1,700 Iowa Heritage Farms, which means a farm in the same family for at least 150 years. Theirs is likely the only such farm owned by a Black family.

“I feel good knowing that so many people love me,” said Freda Long, whose historic Black-owned business needs exterior wall repairs. A GoFundMe seeks to raise money to help pay to fix the beloved community space in the Oakhill Jackson neighborhood.

A’alyiah and Salena Watkins have admired police officers since they were kids, and in February they made history as the first pair of Black sisters at the Cedar Rapids Police Department.

For many Black restaurant owners, Black history isn’t just something celebrated during the shortest month of the year — it’s a lived experience practiced by hand every single day.

Voting is open in UScellular’s fourth annual Black History Month Art Contest with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Corridor. This year, artists were encouraged to recognize influential Black STEM icons that include historical figures, world leaders, scientists and educators.

The students, who are a part of the school’s Black Student Union, say it’s important for them to share how the use of slurs affects Black students and people of color.

Iowa City will be hosting and co-hosting numerous events throughout February to commemorate Black History Month. Events will include presentations, a book club discussion, movie screening, dance workshop, trivia, and more.

This February, the African American Museum of Iowa will host special programming in honor of Black History Month.

Iowa History at Marion High is the number one most requested elective in the school.

Kwanzaa was created in 1966, with its roots in the black power movement, advocating for racial pride, self-sufficiency and equality for Black people.

The Academy for Scholastic and Personal Success in Cedar Rapids has branched out with a new program, Critical Conversations, aimed at adult learners. The virtual program is free.