During February, Black History Month is as an opportunity to celebrate and highlight diversity, and to bring together people of all backgrounds in the spirit of unity.
In the Village of Patchogue, Black History Month was recognized through several events organized by Of Colors…A Creative Collective at Artspace Patchogue, which was founded by Tracy Todd Hunter.
Of Colors’ mission is to organize artists, creatives, and talents, and to mentor, teach, encourage, and promote cultural diversity and cultural awareness through the arts.
To kick off Black History Month, Of Colors held a celebration in honor of diversity on Long Island called “IMPACT” ~ The Black History & Diversity Exhibition & Celebration ~. The theme of the night was “The Civil Rights Movement.” More than 300 people attended the event, which consisted of a fine arts exhibition, live performances, and a recognition ceremony for individuals that have contributed to the growth of diversity initiatives across Long Island.
Of Colors partnered with the Barbers Are Hip-Hop initiative to put on a program that fused haircutting, entertainment and art called “The Barber Showcase and Exhibition.” The mission of Barbers Are Hip-Hop is to use barber skills and creativity to redefine the image of hip-hop towards being a positive social movement. The vision for the event was to provide a space that would allow artists, barbers, hairstylists, and makeup artists to come together and express themselves creatively. The event was a microcosm of the diversity in the barbershop community, with people of all different backgrounds coming together to celebrate the barbershop profession and culture.
In closing out Black History Month, Of Colors held a dinner recognizing honorees that have made a significant contribution to diversity through the arts. Click here for a list of all participants and honorees.
Congratulations to Of Colors, for a successful month recognizing and celebrating diversity in our communities, and we look forward to collaborating more in the future as we work to create a more inclusive and welcoming Long Island for all!
