6 Ways to Celebrate Black History Month in February

1. Take a walking tour of local Phoenix murals

Dozens of buildings in the metro-area now feature the faces of black icons, athletes, activist, musicians and more. The murals are a part of an ongoing project by The Shining Light Foundation. Several new murals will be created during Black History Month 2022. The new murals will feature athletes such as, Muhammed Ali, Simone Biles, Jack Johnson and members of our Phoenix Suns.

Find a map of the murals.

Local artist paints black icons, athletes, activist, musicians and more. The murals are a part of an ongoing project by The Shining Light Foundation. Several new murals will be created during Black History Month 2022.
Photo: Valley of the Sun United Way. Picture: Artist @justcreatedit.
Local artist paints black icons, athletes, activist, musicians and more. The murals are a part of an ongoing project by The Shining Light Foundation. Several new murals will be created during Black History Month 2022.
Photo: Valley of the Sun United Way. Mural pictured created by @justcreatedit.


2. Attend a production of A Soldier’s Play

The Black Theatre Troupe is featuring the Pulitzer Prize winning play by Charles Fuller. A Soldier’s Play examines systemic racism happening in the U.S during World War II. The Black History Troupe, which is the oldest black theatre group in in the southwest, is celebrating its 51st
season in 2022.

Find tickets to a A Soldier’s Play.

3. Celebrate Black History Month at Harkins Theatres

Harkins Theatres is showing several films featuring inspiring stories and trailblazers in the black community. Some titles include:

  • “Harriet”
  • “42”
  • “BLACKKKLANSMAN”
  • “Judas and the Black Messiah”
  • “Black Panther”

Find movie times.

4. Attend the Buy Black Marketplace

Archwood Exchange and Brophy Black Family Alliance are hosting this event. The Buy Black Marketplace will feature local black-owned vendors and restaurants. There will also be live musical performances and a basketball tournament. The event is taking place Saturday, February 12 from 12:00pm to 4:00pm at Brophy College Prep in Phoenix.

Learn more about the event.

5. Teach your children about Black History Month

The Phoenix Children’s Museum is celebrating Black History Month by teaching kids about influential figures in history. You can visit the Star Bar on the 2nd Floor to learn about black pioneers both past and present. It is taking place February 1st through February 28th.

Learn more about The Children’s Museum.

6. Visit Arizona’s only black-owned bookstore

Grassrootz Bookstore in Phoenix is holding its 2nd
annual Black History Month celebration. The bookstore will be showcasing local artists, musicians, poets and speakers. The event is free to attend. It is taking place on Saturday, February 20th from 11:00 am to 4:00pm.

Learn more about the event.

Valley of the Sun United Way is committed to creating an equitable, inclusive community for everyone. Our Mighty Change 5-year plan ensures all residents in Maricopa County have the support they need to lead healthy, happy lives. Read more about our goals.

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