Black History Celebration 2023

WPKN 89.5 FM radio celebrates an expanded Black History Month throughout February 2023 with a broad and in-depth program including music, poetry, interviews, authors, and film. This unprecedented one-month recognition of Black history intends to develop a deeper understanding of the history of African Americans in America and to celebrate their inestimable contribution to all aspects of American culture.

Throughout the month radio programmers will present interviews with African-American musicians, noted African-American authors, poetry, with pre-recorded speeches and discussions featuring Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, Cornel West, authors James Baldwin, Toni Morrison, spoken word artists Sonia Sanchez, Jayne Cortez and the famous appearance of Paul Robeson before the House Committee on Un-American Activities in 1956. Public events will include the newly released films Homecoming, a documentary chronicling Beyoncé’s monumental performance at the 2018 Coachella music festival and Judas And The Black Messiah, about Black Panther Party leader Fred Hampton. Additional Special Features will include Make It Funky concert, Gang Poetry, and a culminating finale presentation of the world-acclaimed Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Co. at the Quick Center at Fairfield University.

More than 50 programs are spread throughout the month.

WPKN Black History Advisory Committee

We are delighted to have a committee of respected community leaders join WPKN. These volunteers are helping to direct the content of our celebrations, provide their insights and knowledge, and engage the community for a richer experience.

Leading this esteemed committee is Ebong Udoma, who is acting as Advisory Committee Chair and has been a volunteer with WPKN for forty years.

Ebong Udoma
WPKN Black History Advisory Committee Chair
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Jason A. Coombs
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Rob Fried
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Sheena Graham
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Kris Sealey, PhD.
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Christina Smith
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Dwayne Smith, PhD.
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Preston Tisdale, Esq.
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Kim Bianca Williams
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WPKN Black History Month Community Events

Homecoming (Beyoncé)

February 8, 2023 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Judas And The Black Messiah

February 15, 2023 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Rhythm of Power – Gang Poetry

February 17, 2023 @ 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Conversations with Sheena Graham & The Gang

February 18, 2023 @ 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Saturday, Bill T Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Co.

February 25, 2023 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm

WPKN Black History Month Full Calendar of Events

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