Union Township celebrates Black History Month with special events

In honor of Black History Month, the Township of Union is hosting a lineup of celebratory events.

On Saturday, Feb. 1, a Black History Month Expo and Vendor Fair will be held at the Jefferson School, located at 155 Hilton Ave. The event, which will kick off the township’s celebration, will be held from 1 to 6 p.m. and will feature live music and performances, Black art, local Black-owned Business vendors, and food trucks.

On Saturday, Feb. 15 from 2 to 7 p.m., “Hear Him Roar: A Celebration of Black Men in the Arts” will be held in the Jefferson School Auditorium. Admission to the event is free, but tickets are required; tickets may be obtained in the Administration Office at Town Hall, 1976 Morris Ave.

Developed and directed by Vauxhall native Daryl L. Stewart, the performance will blend theater, music, dance, projections, and multimedia storytelling. Drawing inspiration from iconic figures in Black history, Hear Him Roar examines their legacy and lineage through a fresh, contemporary lens, creating an unforgettable celebration of Black artistry and excellence.” Guests will “experience the powerful works of legends like James Baldwin, Langston Hughes, and August Wilson, brought to life by an all-male ensemble.

On Friday, Feb. 28, from 6 to 9 p.m., visitors are welcome to the pop-up Black Excellence Art Gallery at the Vauxhall Meeting Center, located at 333 Russell St. Works by local artists including Miyoshi Acevedo and Nasser Tony Williams will be on display. Art curator Arthur Pinckney will represent NJ Art’s World and pieces by Union middle and high school students will be exhibited. Admission to the gallery is free. There will be non-alcoholic champagne and light bites.

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Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.