African American History

Scientists from Terracon are currently at a historic African American graveyard in Ypsilanti. They are conducting a non-invasive geophysical survey as part of a key step in restoring the site. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the story.

More than half a century after his death, the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. continue to shape movements around the world. At the center of his message was a radical idea — that real strength is found not in retaliation, but in restraint. That was a message given—and received—loud and clear when Dr. King made his visit to Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan campus. As we approach the end of Black History Month, WEMU’s John Stockwell takes a closer look at Dr. King’s message and the enduring power of nonviolence.

WEMU's David Fair got together with Marquee Arts' own Nick Alderink to chat about the new films arriving in theaters this weekend and the latest round of special screenings coming to downtown Ann Arbor! Plus, they took time to remember actor Robert Duvall and filmmaker Frederick Wiseman, who both passed away this week.

The origins of Black History Month began 100 years ago. The African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County is commemorating the anniversary with an event tonight. It’s in collaboration with the Ypsilanti District Library. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

A lakeside community outside of Chelsea has long served as a rural retreat and residence for African American families. WEMU’s Ana Longoria shares this Black History Month story.

There was one African American regiment from Michigan that fought in the Civil War. Their story is being told in a recently published book. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Henry “H.P.” Jacobs played a pivotal role in Ypsilanti’s Black history in the mid-1800s. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the story.

The Ann Arbor District Library has several events lined up to commemorate Black History Month. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert has this report.

A new documentary called "Resurgo Detroit: The Rise from Within" is about make its world premiere in downtown Ann Arbor! Marquee Arts cinema programming director Nick Alderink joined WEMU's David Fair today. They discussed that event, other film openings and the list of movies just added to the National Film Registry.

In celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King's legacy and the upcoming Black History Month, the Riverside Arts Center is presenting its fourth annual Black Artist Exhibit. This year's theme is "Embracing Unity through Art" and is made possible by the African American Cultural Historical Museum of Washtenaw County, the Palm Leaf Club, and by Ronnie and Gloria Peterson. Ronnie Peterson himself will talk about the exhibit in detail with Lee Van Roth.