Published on February 11, 2025
“Art in the Atrium” Exhibit of African American Art Planned for Juneteenth
The Morris County Board of County Commissioners officially proclaimed February 2025 as Black History Month last night, encouraging residents to celebrate the achievements and lasting impact of African Americans in Morris County and across the nation.
“We take great pride in recognizing the invaluable contributions of African Americans throughout history and in our community,” said Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen. “Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the resilience, innovation and the rich cultural heritage of the Black community that has helped shape our country.”
The national observance of Black History Month evolved from Negro History Week, established in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a renowned historian, author and educator known as the “Father of Black History.” Dr. Woodson emphasized the importance of teaching African American history to all children, famously stating, “Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history.”
The Morris County Board of County Commissioners encourages residents to use this month as an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of African Americans to daily life, both within Morris County and around the world.
Planning is currently underway for the fifth annual Juneteenth reception on June 19 at the Morris County Administration and Records Building in Morristown, where Art in the Atrium (ATA) will highlight its 33rd annual exhibit of African American art. For more than three decades, ATA has exhibited African American fine art on the second through fifth floors of the building.
This year’s exhibit is scheduled to open on Friday, May 16 and remain until Sept. 19.
ATA, a nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to educating and exhibiting African American fine art in Morristown, is currently presenting “Black Joy” at the Morristown Performing Arts Center’s gallery through March 2nd. More information is available at mayoarts.org.
To learn more about Black History Month, visit blackhistorymonth.gov.
