Honoring Black History Month
This February marks the 100th anniversary of the movement to honor Black History in America. We welcome you to the San Rafael Public Library to recognize this centennial of resilience, creativity, and community. Throughout the month, we will explore the Black experience through a curated series of films, discussions, and music. We are dedicating this program to amplifying Black voices, from the sharp intellect of political pioneers to the creative visions of local filmmakers, continuing a century-long tradition of bringing these vital stories to the forefront.
We invite you to join us for the following free events at the Downtown Library:
Monday, February 2 | 5:30 p.m. – Screening: The Lake Merritt Monster
Presented in partnership with the California Film Institute, teens and tweens are invited to a screening of this unique short film, followed by a discussion with director Benjamin Mulholland. This event offers young creatives a rare chance to engage with a Bay Area filmmaker known for turning small budgets into imaginative movies.
Wednesday, February 18 | 6:00 p.m. – Documentary: Black Feminist
Directed by Zanah Thirus, this illuminating documentary explores the double-edged sword of racial and gender oppression. Thirus, named one of Diversity in Cannes’ Top 10 Filmmakers of the Decade, sheds light on the lack of intersectionality that has often plagued liberation movements and the everyday lived experiences of Black women.
Saturday, February 28 | 2:00 p.m. – Performance: Carl Winters, the “Kalimba King”
Join us for a celebration of rhythm and roots. Carl Winters will guide us through the African origins of jazz, demonstrating the kalimba (thumb piano). He will not only perform but also offer instructions on how to make your own instrument, connecting us directly to the genesis of American music.
Saturday, February 28 | 6:30 p.m. – Indie Lens Pop-Up: The Inquisitor
We close the month with a special Indie Lens Pop-Up screening, a neighborhood series featuring documentaries from PBS’s Independent Lens. This film focuses on the groundbreaking Barbara Jordan. From the Nixon impeachment to civil rights battles, we will witness how her sharp intellect and moral clarity transformed U.S. politics and reshaped our democracy.
Beyond our programming, our librarians have also curated booklists for all ages that honor Black history and stories, ensuring that these vital narratives remain accessible to everyone long after the month ends.