McKinney Kicks Off Black History Month This Weekend – NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth

McKinney celebrates Black History Month with events highlighting the city's rich history, diverse culture and the contributions of Black Americans.

It is the third year that the city has hosted a series of events throughout the month, with the aim of bringing the community together.

“As more people come to McKinney, we’re excited to have programming that celebrates diversity,” said Chantelle Kadala of McKinney Economic Development Corporation. “We have everything in McKinney. And with this programming, we can showcase the contributions of African Americans in our county.”

It all starts on Sunday February 4th with worship service at McKinney First Baptist Church that celebrates historic black churches.

“On the same day, Sunday, we have the Legacy Keepers of Old East McKinney“A great organization that is committed to preserving the history and the legacy of Black and Brown communities in McKinney,” said City Councilmember Dr. Geré Feltus. “They’re going to be partnering with the libraries in McKinney to create an exhibit, and that exhibit will showcase some of that history. So that’s the beginning of our weekend.”

On February 17, Collin College's McKinney campus will host the free kid-friendly College Megafest 2024 with more than 25 local and historically black colleges and universities.

“We're working with St. Mark's Church on that, which is also a very historic church, and maybe the first black church in McKinney,” Feltus said. “And they've been doing this College Megafest for 12 years. So they have really great experience in offering information on financial aid, ACT and SAT prep, and there will be scholarships as well.”

A Gospel Soulfood Brunch is scheduled for February 18 at the Gather Event Center featuring Grammy nominee Zacardi Cortez. And on February 21, it's the Living Colors of Collin County Community Awards.

CEO of Dallas Mavericks Cynt Marshall will be the keynote speaker at the CEO Breakfast Series on February 22nd and you don't have to travel from McKinney to attend.

“She’s going to have a discussion about leadership, business and diversity. We want people to come to McKinney and share that knowledge with us,” said Kadala, who will serve as moderator.

Karen Clark-Sheard will be the guest artist at the Harmony of Unity Gospel Celebration on February 25 at Kingdom Life Fellowship.

For adults only 90s Hip Hop House Party with Spinderella ends the month of festivities on March 1.

“We're excited about that because that's the fun part of the culture and we want people to come, enjoy it and experience a little bit of that celebration in a hophouse party style,” Kadala said.

You don’t have to be from McKinney to attend. Except for two ticketed signature events, all McKinney Black History Month activities are free and open to the public.

“One of the things I want to debunk is the myth that celebrating different cultures is a bad thing. Acknowledging the differences between us is not a bad thing. There are things that we can all celebrate and embrace about each other,” Feltus said. “So when we approached the programming, our goal was to be inclusive of every member of our community. We make it feel warm and inviting and we invite everyone to join us. And while we emphasize Black culture, there are ways for all of us to celebrate together and have a good time and learn together and that will continue to be our mission.”

For more information on how to register for events and view the calendar, please visit McKinneyBHM.com.