The contributions of African Americans played a pivotal role in the shaping of the United States. In commemoration of Black History month, various venues in New Jersey will commemorate this cultural heritage with celebrations in song, dance, theatre and prose.

“The month of February is full of activities, exhibitions, and performances that celebrate the ancestry of the African American culture,” said Nancy Byrne, Executive Director of Travel & Tourism. “Visitors and residents will be captivated by the attractions and talent that dominate the Garden State.”

The African American Stamp Art Exhibition from the collection of Wanda Garbet is taking place in the Monmouth Museum through February 18, the Akan Names of Ghana February 7 at the New Jersey Historical Society in Newark where Kofi Ayim will discuss the names and naming ceremonies of Ghana, which place an individual in the context of the tribe as well as
the Small Towns, Black Lives: African American Communities in New Jersey a photographic and multimedia exhibit featuring the works of Wendel A. White are among the many activities that are taking place this month in New Jersey.