Throughout the month of February, we were pleased to offer residents multiple opportunities to commemorate Black History Month!  Residents enjoyed a variety of activities aimed to raise awareness and encourage community throughout the month:
• Philadelphia West residents kicked off Black History month with a trip to the African American Museum.  Everyone who participated in the activity was truly moved by the history behind the exhibits and learned more about African American leaders.  Of special interest was the photography exhibit that showcased the numerous ways to express masculinity.
• Residents were also able to visit the Sigal Museum in Easton on Saturday, February 15th, to view the Black History month exhibit.  The installation included artifacts donated by families as well as the NAACP.
• On February 20th, Walter Beach, the Cleveland Browns’ first black cornerback and Super Bowl winner, joined New Vitae as a guest speaker.  Throughout his life, Mr. Beach has been a leader and advocate for the African American community, penning books about his experiences.  A famed lecturer and Veteran of the Air Force, Mr. Beach joined us before his speaking engagement at the NAACP meeting later that evening in Allentown.  Prior to his presentation, staff shared information about local Underground Railroad sites in Bucks and Lehigh Counties and a resident sang a stirring rendition of Amazing Grace.  After hearing Mr. Beach’s hopeful and impactful message, participants were able to share in music, food, and games to further commemorate the significance of African American culture and ideas.  One resident won a giftcard for sharing knowledge about Black History during a trivia game.  Additionally, decorations included African American artists’ designs that had been colored by residents.
Residents were excited to learn more about their own or another culture throughout the month.  Our celebrations offered the chance to further connect and consider the accomplishments of African Americans.
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