Pasadena Community Partners Kick Off Black History Month With Celebration

Pasadena Community Partners kicked off Black History Month on Tuesday at Perry’s Joint and the Community Health Alliance of Pasadena (ChapCare) in Northwest Pasadena.

Across the nation, February is recognized as Black History Month.

The outdoor coffee social brought community leaders, advocates, and locals together for an intimate and meaningful kick-off celebration for Black History Month.

Reflecting on what would have been the 40th Annual Black History Parade, canceled this year out of COVID concerns, the morning conversation honored the late two-time Grand Marshall Michael Zinzun.

Described as a beloved and revered community member, Zinzun was acknowledged for his quest for social justice and involvement in the civil rights movements in Pasadena and internationally.

The documentary film “Zinzun A Revolutionary Activist ” based on his life and advocacy produced by the Pasadena African American Film Foundation (paaffoundation.org) will premiere online on February 14th followed by an in-person 4:00 pm screening Sunday, February 20th at Boston Court Pasadena.

The conversation was moderated by James Farr, host of the award-winning “The Conversation Live.” Featured speakers shared why they do what they do, how they plan to celebrate, what is their hope for the community and what they think “it will take for us to get to a place of equality and inclusion.”

“The Black History Month Kick-off Party was simply a sign of unity,” observed Brandon Lamar.

“It was a breath of fresh air to see and feel the Black/ Brown love in-person. It’s important for us to never forget where we come from, especially the Black History that is so embedded in our city. Despite the cancelation of the Black History Parade, I think it’s important for the community to safely attend and participate in as many events as possible and understand that we celebrate black history every day of the year. I want to express my thanks to the community partners who made this first day special. Solidarity is how we preserve our history,” Lamar said.

“Many thanks to Christy [Zamani] and James [Farr] for today’s kick-off party and the opportunity to celebrate face to face with the community and our partners.  The optimism and enthusiasm of the speakers and the crowd renews my hope for the future!” Martin A. Gordon, Chair/CEO Pasadena Community Coalition.