By: Kelly Martins, Union County Director of Communications
The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents and friends to celebrate National Black History Month this February with a series of engaging events that highlight the voices, cultural contributions, and historical significance of African Americans throughout history.
This year’s theme, “African Americans and Labor,” emphasizes the profound ways that Black Americans have impacted the workforce, from enslaved domestic workers, to agricultural and industrial employees, to leadership roles in modern times.
“The history of Black Americans is one of resilience, strength, and hope in the face of discrimination and the struggle for freedom and equality,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon.
“This February, we honor this journey by reflecting on the profound contributions of the Black community and celebrating its vital role in shaping our shared past. I invite you to join us for vibrant events as we honor this rich culture together.”
The month-long celebration kicked off earlier this afternoon, Monday, February 3rd, at 1:00 p.m. with a raising of the Pan-African flag, also known as the Black Liberation Flag, on the front steps of the historic Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.
“We proudly raise this flag each year to honor our ancestors and their enduring legacy,” said Union County Commissioner James Baker.
“With each wave, we celebrate their strength and contributions, fostering pride in our children and community for generations to come.”
The series continues on Thursday, February 13th, at 7:00 p.m. with a jazz performance at Union County Performing Arts Center’s Hamilton Stage, located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway.
Co-sponsored by the City of Rahway, guests will enjoy a performance by the jazz trio Grown Groovin’, led by multi-instrumentalist and Plainfield native Anthony Nelson, Jr., and featuring musical talents Kenny Davis on acoustic bass and Winard Harper on drums.
The event will begin with a presentation of the 2025 Chester Holmes Humanitarian Award by the Union County Board of County Commissioners.
The show is free, but registration is required. Each household may reserve up to four (4) tickets while supplies last. For larger group reservations, please contact Judith Guest at the Union County Office of Community Engagement and Diversity at 908-527-4388. Seating is first come, first served. Reserve your free tickets today at //ucpac.org/events.
The Jazz Performance is made possible by funds from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, a partner agency of the National Endowment of the Arts.
This event was organized by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, and held in collaboration with the Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC).
“Black History Month is a time to honor the achievements of the past, celebrate the creativity and spirit of the present, and inspire hope for the future,” said Union County Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort.
“This year, as we reflect on the theme of African Americans and labor, we are proud to showcase the talents of Anthony Nelson, Jr. and the Grown Groovin’ trio. Their artistry is a testament to the enduring influence of Black culture and its ability to transcend barriers, build community, and uplift us all.
I invite everyone to join us for an unforgettable evening of jazz, as we come together to celebrate the richness of Black history and the vibrant contributions of the Black community in Union County and beyond.”
The 2025 Black History Month event lineup concludes Wednesday, February 26th at 12:00 p.m. with a special history seminar by secretary-treasurer of the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), Ms. Petal Robertson.
The event will take place at Union College of Union County, NJ, Victor M. Richel Student Commons area, located at 1033 Springfield Avenue in Cranford. To register for this free event, visit //ucnj.org/bhm.