As communities across the nation prepare to recognize Black History Month, the Bolingbrook Black History Month Awareness Club is celebrating a milestone of its own: 28 years of uplifting history, culture, and unity in the southland suburbs.
For nearly three decades, the club’s annual Black History Month celebration has served as a cornerstone event in Bolingbrook, drawing families, students, educators, and residents of all backgrounds together for an afternoon of reflection, learning, and inspiration.
This year’s celebration will take place on Saturday, February 8, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Bolingbrook High School, located at 365 Raider Way, Bolingbrook, IL 60440. The event is free and open to the public.
Organizers promise an afternoon filled with powerful performances, engaging activities, and community recognitions that honor the richness of Black heritage while fostering inclusion and appreciation throughout the region.
A highlight of this year’s program will be the recognition of Christine Houston, an award-winning screenwriter, professor, and groundbreaking figure in television history. A Chicago native, Houston is best known for creating the popular 1980s NBC sitcom “227,” which aired from 1985 to 1990.
Houston made history as the first African American woman to receive a “created by” credit in primetime television, paving the way for generations of writers and creators to follow. Today, she continues to inspire future storytellers as a screenwriting professor at Chicago State University.
The celebration will also feature keynote remarks from Dr. Sandy Womack, along with a dynamic performance by the Victory Cathedral Worship Dance Ministry.
Families can expect an atmosphere designed for all ages. Children will enjoy games and crafts, while adults can take part in complimentary refreshments, raffle prizes, and opportunities to connect with neighbors and local leaders.
True to its mission of celebrating achievement and encouraging opportunity, the event will include special recognitions for outstanding middle school students from Valley View District 365U, as well as honors for local seniors who have been accepted to college.
Scholarships will also be awarded to deserving students, reinforcing the club’s long-standing commitment to education, empowerment, and community growth.
Founded in 1997, the Bolingbrook Black History Month Awareness Club has been a catalyst for positive change in the community for nearly three decades. The organization was established by visionary leaders including Attorney Anita Kontoh Scott (Carty), former DuPage Township Trustee Felix George, and Financial Advisor Bernard Winston.
Under the leadership of its current board, the club continues to expand its reach and impact, drawing hundreds of attendees each year and strengthening cultural pride across Will County and beyond.
The annual celebration is generously supported by community partners, including Valley View District 365U, the Village of Bolingbrook, the Bolingbrook Arts Council, Fountaindale Public Library, and numerous local businesses.
As the Bolingbrook Black History Month Awareness Club enters its 28th year, organizers say their commitment remains unwavering: to educate, inspire, and promote unity through the celebration of Black history and heritage.
For more information about the event and the organization’s mission, visit www.bolingbrookblackhistory.com.
Established in 1997, the Bolingbrook Black History Month Awareness Club was created to promote diversity, awareness, and appreciation of Black heritage throughout the southwest suburbs.
