By TB Reporter

The focus is World War II, culture and heritage.

ST. PETERSBURG – Black History Month culminates in two major events during the coming week.

“Fighting for the Right to Fight: African American Experiences in WWII” will take place on Tuesday (Feb. 28) at the St. Petersburg Museum of History. The event will feature an exhibit, a reception and a panel of distinguished veterans who will share their experiences in the military during war and times of peace. It is sponsored jointly by the Carter G. Woodson Museum of African American History and Gallerie 909.

The exhibit, which opened Oct. 28, 2016 and closes on March 5, 2017 tells the story of how thousands of African Americans rushed to enlist at the start of World War II intent on serving their country – even as it treated them as second-class citizens. They were determined to fight to preserve the freedom that they themselves had been denied.

The usual admission fee of $15 has been reduced to $6 for this event and children under the age of 6 are free. Thanks to sponsorships by Carla Bristol, Carl Lavender, Linda Whitney and Gwendolyn Reese, veterans are invited to attend as guests. Guest invitations are limited to the first 40 veterans to respond. Call (727) 323-1104. If you would like to assist in sponsoring veterans or others who may need assistance please call that same number. Tickets can be purchased 10 for $60 or 5 for $30.

This coming Saturday (Feb. 25) is the second annual Black Arts Festival. The event is free and takes place 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on 22nd Street S between Ninth and Eleventh avenues. More than 20 local and national artists will be on hand. For information or to participate, call Gallerie 909, (727) 565-3930.

St. Petersburg | St. Petersburg Museum of History | Carter G. Woodson Museum of African American History | TB Reporter

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