African Americans and the Arts
Happy Black History Month! This month we celebrate the incredible impact Black Americans have had on the visual arts, cultural movements, music, and more.
At the Y, we celebrate our diversity and the histories, cultures, and contributions of our African American community members.
The Black History Tour is back in 2024! Check out where our stops are throughout the Gateway Region YMCA Association during February.
Thank you to those who purchased a ticket or table for our first Black History Month Gala! We are officially sold out and are excited to see everyone on February 24.
Get to Know our Keynote Speaker!
Dr. Michael Maclin was appointed as Superintendent of Schools by SSD's Board of Education effective January 1, 2024.
Having worked as a classroom teacher, guidance counselor, and administrator in school districts across St. Louis County, Maclin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in leading instructional innovation, organizational and leadership development, implementation of technology initiatives, development of interventions and support programs for diverse populations, maximization of resources, and strategic planning.
Having worked as a classroom teacher, guidance counselor, and administrator in school districts across St. Louis County, Maclin brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in leading instructional innovation, organizational and leadership development, implementation of technology initiatives, development of interventions and support programs for diverse populations, maximization of resources, and strategic planning.
We Wear Black - February 23
Please join us and other Ys across the country in wearing black on Friday, February 23 in honor of those who have made sacrifices for equity, to celebrate Black History, and to take a stand against injustice and systemic racism.
Black Love Day
Black Love Day falls on February 13 every year since it was founded in 1993. This spiritual holiday is rooted in African cultures and ideas, and the aim is to complete the five Tenets: to practice love toward "the Creator, for Self, for the Family, within the Black Community and for the Black Race" for 24 hours, according to the African American Registry.