TAMPA, Fla. – The City of Tampa Black History Committee, Inc. (COTBHC) will host its 37th Annual Black History Celebration on Monday, February 17th, at 11 a.m. at the historic Tampa Theatre. The event is free and open to the public.
This year’s celebration, themed “Trailblazers: Leading Change,” will recognize nine outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, including business, the arts, community advocacy, and healthcare.
“Black history is American history, and the contributions of these local community leaders deserve to be celebrated,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. “These individuals have changed lives, strengthened neighborhoods, and paved the way for future generations. It is an honor to recognize their work.”
READ: Black History Month: A Century Of Recognizing Achievements And Contributions
Honorees:
- Antonio Brown, Central Station Barbershop & Grooming
- Erica Hardison, One Community Grocery Co-op
- Dr. Angela M. Hill, USF Health Taneja College of Pharmacy
- Kehsi Iman, New Disabled South
- Arizona Jenkins, New Horizons Support Group
- Latonia Jones, Annie’s Assisted Living Facility & Top 2 Bottom Builders
- Vickie Oldham, Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition, Inc.
- Jean-René Rinvil, Artist & Filmmaker
- Darrius Stallworth, City of Tampa Housing & Community Development
The event will feature inspiring performances, including a jazz trio by whataboutmama, spoken word by poet Queen Jua, and a presentation from Kuumba Dance & Drummers. Dr. Angela Hill, a leading researcher in Alzheimer’s disease and neurological studies, will deliver the keynote address.
Since 1999, the COTBHC has been awarding scholarships to high school students in Hillsborough County and the Tampa Bay region, demonstrating its commitment to education, diversity, and preserving Black history.
For more information about the event, visit www.cotbhc.org.
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