JACKSONVILLE, N.C (WNCT) – The Onslow County Library will be hosting its “Traveling While Black in Onslow County” event starting February 5 at 2 p.m.
“As part of the mission of OCPL to enrich, empower and inspire, “Traveling While Black,” introduces the community to places and organizations within Onslow County that share a focus on African American history and how strides have been made throughout the county to celebrate and give voice to African Americans through history.”
Matthew Mano, the Public Communications Specialist for the Onslow County Library
There will be many programs throughout the month of February. The first will feature Houston Shinal, who will be discussing and focusing on the Montford Point Marines and their significance to the Jacksonville community as well as in American history.
Online Originals: Montford Point Marines recognized during the ceremony
Veterans Voices: Montford Point Marines
On February 12, Dr. Rev. Amy Ciceron will do a presentation on St. Julia Chruch. St. Julia Church has had a strong history of pursuing freedom.
On February 19, the library will present a virtual tour of the Jacksonville-Onslow African American Heritage Trail. The trial is a joint project between the Business Diversity Council, Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Commerce. Onslow County Museum, as well as Onslow County Tourism.
Onslow County getting ready for first Black History Month festival
February 26, Angela Thrope, the Director of the NC African American Heritage Commission, will be on Zoom. The event will take place at 2 p.m. in the main library meeting room. She will focus on the Eastern North Carolina locations of the NC Green Book Project.
This project is an initiative of the NC African American Heritage Commission and lists over 300 African American businesses that were considered “oasis spaces” for travelers.
The last event of the month will feature a Black-owned small business and organization fair. The fair will begin at 1 p.m. The attendants will meet local business and organization owners from the Onslow area, and they will learn about how they can support small businesses.
