Calendar of Events
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2 events,
Space for Us: Afrofuturism and the Poetic Imagination
The Freedmen's Town Visitor Center is proud to present Space for Us: Afrofuturism and the Poetic Imagination which showcases the captivating works of Aris Kian Brown as part of her community outreach project as Houston’s 2023-2025 Poet Laureate. This exhibition challenges the boundaries between art and organizing, protest and poetics, imagination and demand. This event is […]
Celebrate Freedmen’s Town: UH Graphic Design Exhibition
Celebrate Freedmen's Town is a collaborative exhibit with the cultural archives of Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy that features selected posters by the junior Graphic Design students at the University of Houston Katherine McGovern School of Art. Through the visual language of design, students envisioned topographical data, cultural institutions, and signifiers of history that answer questions […]
3 events,
Porch Talk: From Freedom to Foundation – – Stories of Texas’ Freedmen’s Colonies
Porch Talk: From Freedom to Foundation – – Stories of Texas’ Freedmen’s Colonies
"From Freedom to Foundation," where we delve into the rich history and enduring legacy of Freedmen's Towns across Texas that highlight the transformative journey from emancipation to the establishment of resilient communities that shaped the cultural and economic landscape of the nation. These communities, established by formerly enslaved African Americans after the Civil War, are a testament to resilience, determination, and cultural brilliance.
This panel discussion aims to shed light on the untold stories of Texas' Freedmen's Towns, honoring their contributions to the state's cultural and historical landscape. The dialogue will be facilitated by Dr. Alicia Odewale, Professor of Practice at the University of Houston, Department for African American Studies to include Commissioner Dexter McCoy, Kendleton, TX, Rita Wiltz, Tamina, TX and LaReatha Clay, Shankleville, TX.
AGENDA
Reception 6:00PM - 6:30PM
Panel Discussion 6:30PM - 7:15PM
Q&A 7:15PM - 7:30PM
Networking 7:30PM - 8:00PM
3 events,
Black Heritage Witness Tree Community Meeting
Black Heritage Witness Tree Community Meeting
We invite you to join us at the Freedmen's Town Visitor Center on June 14, 2025 from 10 AM - 12 pM for a meaningful presentation and discussion. The meeting will create space to share stories, celebrate heritage, and discuss ways to protect and uplift our collective legacy. Presentation - Discussion - Refreshments RSVP is […]
3 events,
Juneteenth Fest – 160 – Building What We Started – Celebrating 160 Years of Freedom
Juneteenth Fest – 160 – Building What We Started – Celebrating 160 Years of Freedom
In commemoration and celebration of 160 years of emancipation, the Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy presents “Building What We Started”, a series of programming during the month of June focused on resilience and community strength, celebrating the journey of Freedom. The Conservancy will feature educational, community, arts, and cultural programming reflecting the rich and unique cultural heritage of Freedmen’s Town.
The Freedmen's Town Juneteenth - 160 Fest: Building What We Started is a dynamic celebration honoring 160 years of emancipation celebrating freedom, culture, and communication. This festival is a vibrant fusion of history, art, music, and cuisine designed to honor the significance of Juneteenth. The event will feature an array of arts and cultural programming, including an exhibition and workshops that highlight the rich heritage and essence of Freedmen's Town. Attendees can enjoy live music, performances, activities, and programs which creates an atmosphere of joy and reflection. The event will showcase a fireside chat with Marc Lamont Hill, author, activist, and television personality and include a moment to highlight the legacy and advocacy of former Mayor and Congressman Sylvester Turner’s commitment to Freedmen’s Town. This year’s celebration will be a powerful tribute to freedom, unity, and the enduring legacy of emancipation.
For more information, contact us at info@houstonfreedmenstown.org or (713) 366-4212.
A big thank you to our sponsors!
Underwriting Sponsor - Beverage Station
Whitney Alsup
3 events,
Our Road Home – Exploring Freedom
Our Road Home – Exploring Freedom
Our Road Home will premiere at the Bethel Church Historic Site in the heart of Freedmen’s Town, as part of the Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy’s Juneteenth Celebration. This new work aims to serve as a node of remembrance, exploring the implications of a new free life and the value we can learn from the journey and cultural fertility of this community. The work features dance, music, song, and more, performed by a talented cast of artists from Houston and beyond. Our Road Home celebrates the building of a community, the strength of its people, and freedom as a way of life.
Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy presents “Our Road Home” - an interactive rhythmic performance created and directed by Houston artist, Jakari Sherman.
6:45PM - Transport to Bethel begins
7:00PM - Mixer
7:30PM - Program Begins
8:15PM - Program Ends
8:30PM - Reception at the Freedmen's Town Visitor Center
3 events,
Community Action Meeting
Community Action Meeting
Join our Community Action Meeting to learn how you can help shape the future of this historic community. ✨ Discover our calendar of upcoming events and exhibitions, ✨ Learn how you can make an impact as a volunteer, ✨ Engage with others passionate about Black history, cultural preservation and local tourism, Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to the community, this […]
