Every February, as retailers stock Valentine’s cards and heart-shaped chachkas, a growing number of Americans observe another cultural event-Black History Month. But this holiday has not yet been sullied with commercialism. Celebrations that mark Black History Month do so for the sole purpose of recognizing the significance of African Americans in our communities.
At KPBS, we do this each February by honoring local heroes who make San Diego a better place. This year’s recipients are Jennie Hamilton, Freddie M. Jackson, Vincent W. Mudd, Reverend George Walker Smith, Cecil H. Steppe, John E. Warren and Gerri Warren.
And while KPBS features programs on African Americans throughout the year, the station also offers special features this month that recognize past and current events affecting African Americans. Below are Editor’s Picks for the month. For a complete listing of all KPBS’ Black History Month programs, visit kpbs.org.