Black History Month was created by black Americans to celebrate the many acheivements of, well black Americans.  But in this global world of ours, it doesn't mean that we can't do the same.  Among other notable figures in Antigua, we celebrate the lives of Bert Williams, a top performer in the United States during the vaudeville era, Jamaica Kincaid, internationally-acclaimed author of several novels including Annie John, Lucy and most recently Among Flowers:  A Walk in the Himalayas, in 2005. Cricketers Sir Vivian Richards, Andy Roberts, Curtly Ambrose certainly need no introduction and former world junior middleweight boxing champion Maurice Hope represented Antigua in the 1972 Olympics. The literary community has established a month-long schedule of events to recognise the people and groups we will be celebrating as icons in the future.

February 1-13

• Wadadli Youth Pen Prize  - deadline Feb 5, 2010

February 14 - 20

• Africa: Our Story radio trivia and prizes, with Kush David
• Best of Books owner Barbara Arrindell, D. Gisele Isaac and Zahra Airall, and artist Mark Brown appear on Observer Radio’s Voice of the People 8 Feb. to discuss perceptions of black people in the media and arts
• Cedric Holder, Ammi Ben Israel of the Hebrew Israelites and fellow panellists discuss symbolism, connection, and perceptions of Africa on 15 Feb.

February 21-26

• On Feb. 22, a visual arts exhibition at the national museum on Long St. Cedric Holder will show pieces from his collection of African art, Colin Comberbatch showcases Zimbabwean art, and Heather Doram, Mark Brown present original pieces

• Public lecture at the Best of Books on Friars Hill Rd 23 Feb. at 6 p.m. Featured speakers include El-A-Kru’s Rohan Hector, and activist Vance "Bandele" Joseph discussing black identity in the media

• The Word Up! 2010 creative arts showcase on Feb. 26th is directed by Zahra Airall, featuring Zee’s Youth Theatre. The evening will be a mix of song and dance, and feature the work of Althea Prince, Motion, Althea Romeo-Mark, Elaine Olaoye and other. Word Up! 2010 is a paid event with proceeds benefitting both the national museum and Haiti relief efforts.

(As more events are added they will be updated on 4=365antigua.com)