Second Annual Black History Month Dinner
to Be Held In Ashland
A Celebration of Black History for All
Sasha Bush
The Ashland Beacon
The importance of Black history cannot be overstated. It is not a separate or isolated narrative – it is a central part of everyone’s history. This truth is at the heart of the C.B. Nuckolls Community Center & Black History Museum in Ashland, Kentucky, which is dedicated to preserving and sharing the remarkable stories of Black Americans and their vital contributions to society. Through its mission, the museum encourages everyone to engage with this history, recognizing that it is a story that belongs to all of us.
The museum, a nonprofit institution, serves as a hub for the collection, documentation, and study of Black history in Ashland and across the United States. The museum’s cofounder, Vice President, and Curator, Darrell Smith, emphasized the importance of Black history in our collective heritage. He explained, “Black History is not just Black History but everyone’s History!” This powerful statement highlights a fundamental truth: the history of Black Americans has shaped and influenced the entire nation. From the fight for civil rights to artistic achievements, technological innovations, and political leadership, Black history is woven into the very fabric of American identity.
The museum's mission goes beyond mere preservation; it is also about education and celebration. The museum aims to foster a deeper understanding of Black history and its impact on present-day society, especially among young people. “The importance of learning about Black history and how it has helped to shape our nations is so vital to our children in so many ways,” Smith said. Educating children about this shared history is crucial for shaping young minds and instilling a sense of character and unity. Without understanding history, particularly the mistakes of the past, we risk repeating them. Thus, embracing all aspects of history, including Black history, is essential to creating a better future.
In this spirit, the museum’s upcoming Second Annual Black History Month Fundraising Dinner on Feb. 22, 2025, promises to be an exciting celebration of Black history and culture. The event will be held at the Highlands Museum and Discover Center in Ashland, Kentucky, from six to 10 p.m. It is designed not only to raise funds for the museum but also to bring the community together in celebration of Black history. Tickets for the event are priced at $100, and attendees can look forward to an evening filled with food, music, and fellowship. Texas Roadhouse will cater dinner and dessert, with drinks included in the price of the ticket. A DJ will provide entertainment, and there will be a silent auction to raise additional funds for the museum’s ongoing work.
A particularly exciting feature of this year’s event will be a Chautauqua presentation. This performance will feature talented individuals portraying iconic figures from Black history: Angela Linthicum will bring Mahalia Jackson to life, Kristen Martin will portray Harriet Tubman, and Leah Branch will embody Madam C.J. Walker. These Chautauqua performances are a powerful way to engage the audience with the rich history of Black Americans and provide a deeper, more personal connection to the figures who shaped the course of history.
“The fellowship and the wow factor when people walk into the room, because it takes everyone to a different place,” Smith shared, speaking to the profound impact the event has on attendees each year. The event is not just a fundraiser, but a celebration of community and a chance for people of all backgrounds to come together, learn, and grow. As the event continues to grow year after year, Smith is excited about its future potential to reach even more people and increase awareness of Black history’s importance.
In addition to the opportunity to attend the event, there are various sponsor levels available for those who wish to contribute more to the cause. Sponsorships include Bronze ($1,000), Silver ($1,500), and Gold ($2,500), with perks such as a table for eight and recognition online and at the event.
The event also provides practical conveniences such as free parking at the 17th Street parking garage, located behind the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center, with a sixth-floor entrance to the museum. This thoughtful accommodation ensures that the event is accessible to all who wish to attend and support the museum’s mission.
In the end, the C.B. Nuckolls Community Center & Black History Museum serves as an important reminder that Black history is not just the history of one group of people – it is the history of all people. Understanding and embracing this truth is crucial to building a more unified, informed, and empathetic society. By supporting the museum and attending events like the Black History Month Fundraising Dinner, we can all contribute to preserving and sharing the stories that have shaped our nation.
As Smith stated, “We must study it, learn from it, and share what we have learned with others.” The Second Annual Black History Month Fundraising Dinner offers an opportunity to do just that – while enjoying a wonderful evening of food, music, and community. Let us all come together to honor the history that belongs to us all.
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