City of Lexington hosts inspiring Black History Month Celebration
The City of Lexington, NC Government proudly hosted its annual Black History Month Celebration on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Charles England Elementary School. This year’s theme, Preserving the History, Embracing the Future, set the stage for a powerful and engaging event that brought together community members eager to honor the past and look forward to the future.
The celebration featured an inspiring keynote address by esteemed author, historian, and former city councilor Tonya Lanier. Lanier captivated the audience with a rich historic presentation that highlighted both local and national Black history. She also shared insights into her published works, discussed her impactful obituary project, and engaged attendees with local history trivia that kept the energy high throughout the event.
A highlight of the celebration was the recognition of two distinguished local trailblazers, Charlotte Roberts and Tyrone Terry. Both honorees have dedicated their lives to making significant contributions to the Lexington community, leaving a lasting impact through their leadership and service.
Adding to the evening’s cultural richness, live musical performances were provided by talented musicians Ken Davis and Ken Keesee, performing songs from the Chitlin' Circuit (The Chitlin' Circuit was a network of venues that welcomed African American performers during the Jim Crow era) creating a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere. Attendees also had the opportunity to explore history boards displayed around the room, offering a visual journey through key moments in Black history and local heritage.
The City of Lexington remains committed to celebrating Black history, fostering education, and honoring those who have paved the way for progress. This year’s event was a testament to the importance of preserving history while embracing the future with unity and purpose.
For more information about future community events, please contact the City of Lexington, NC Government.
