NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (WKBW) — New York State Parks announced a series of events and programming throughout the state to celebrate Black History Month in the month of February.
The programming and events are meant to celebrate African American contributions to state history.
Locally, at Niagara Falls State Park, the falls will be illuminated in red, black and green February 13, starting at 6 p.m., for a 15-minute period continuing through 11 p.m.
At the Old Fort Niagara State Historic Site in Youngstown a February 6 tour will highlight the "African American military service at post from the 18th through the 20th centuries, including the story of formerly enslaved Richard Pierpoint, who served during the American Revolution. The tour will also address the history of the 24th Infantry Regiment, a unit of African American “Buffalo Soldiers” raised after the Civil War," a release says.
Officials say the tour size is limited to 20 persons and preregistration is required by contacting Erika Schrader at 716-745-7611, ext. 221, or eschrader@oldfortniagara.org.
“We support Governor Andrew Cuomo’s commitment to better telling the undertold stories of African Americans who helped shape our state’s diverse history,” said Erik Kulleseid, commissioner of state Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. “During Black History Month in February, I welcome visitors to take advantage of our displays, events, virtual programming and online content, as well as through safe, socially-distanced outdoor visits to our sites related to this important aspect of our common heritage.”
To view a full list of the events and programming scheduled throughout February you can click here.
