Shawn RyanBlack History Month begins Thursday, and there are a wealth of films, concerts, panel discussions and other events all over town, including more than 20 events at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Here’s a quick rundown on some that are free.
» Ed Johnson Project Documentary Screening and Panel Discussion: 3:15-5 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 8, at the UTC Library, Southern Writers Room
In 1906, after the U.S. Supreme Court halted the execution of Ed Johnson for a rape he didn’t commit, he was lynched by a mob on the Walnut Street Bridge. The documentary explores his death and the way the media presents black men. www.edjohnsonproject.com.
» “Martin Luther King Jr.: A Personal Portrait”: 6-8 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 8, at the UTC University Center Auditorium
Cinematographer George Silano screens the interview he filmed in King’s home. Made in 1965, it wasn’t shown until 2013 after Silano tracked it to the University of Georgia.
» Injustice in the Prison Industrial Complex: 5-6:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 9, at Derthick Hall, Room 101
Ramona Brant was sentenced to life in prison after the father of her children was arrested for drugs. She was a nonviolent, first-time offender and was assured by law enforcement and the judge that she would not go to jail if she signed a plea agreement. She did and served 21 years until President Barack Obama granted her clemency.
» “Paris is Burning”: 8-10 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 15 at the UTC University Center, Multicultural Center
The documentary examines Harlem’s drag-queen balls of the 1980s, a highly competitive, elaborately staged world. The 1990 film won the Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize and Best Documentary from the Los Angeles, New York and National Film Critics’ circles
» Etiquette for the Soul: 8:30-10:30 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 21, at the UTC University Center, Tennessee Room
Discussions explore the history and origin of soul food and its relationship with the African-American community. Soul food will be served.
» Between the University and Me: A Panel Discussion on UTC’s Role in Black History: 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 27, at the UTC Library, Southern Writers Room
An interactive panel discussion and Q&A looks at UTC’s role in teaching and preserving black history, as well as supporting black students and culture on campus and in the community.
Contact Shawn Ryan at mshawnryan@gmail.com.