Elgin library celebrates black history, achievement
On a normal day, the Gail Borden Public Library draws more than 2,000 visitors.
Saturday won't exactly be a normal day for the Elgin facility.
It's the fourth annual Black History Family Festival and organizers hope more than 4,000 people - last year's tally - will come out for an afternoon of speakers and authors, information and inspiration.
"It's not just for African-Americans," said Phyllis Folarin, the event's co-chairwoman. "We are sharing the African-American culture with the entire community."
The event began after Folarin approached library leaders after a literacy event timed with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day never really took off.
The festival stresses literacy and highlights the African-American experience and achievement.
The afternoon will feature music and dance performances, children's activities, local authors, and a dramatization of notable African Americans by the "Divine Arts Ministry" of the Second Baptist Church in Elgin.
"The intent is to spotlight different individuals who made a great impact on our country," said Rev. Nathaniel Edmond, church pastor.
Edmond is one of nine speakers for a new feature this year called the "Inspiring Leaders Table Talk."
"Those who will come out on Saturday will be both inspired and also challenged as we look to the future," Edmond said. "Our history is in our hands."
The panel includes: Keith Brown, Kane County chief judge;
Rolanda Burris, director of Academic Assistance at Judson University; Femi Folarin, Elgin city manager; Randall Hodges, Larsen Middle School principal;
Chantelle Porter Jackson, attorney; David Sam, Elgin Community College president; Cecil Smith, Elgin Police Department deputy chief; and Donna Vaughn, dancer, choreographer and co-founder of DanceWorks Chicago.
Organizers have printed bookmarks with a slogan that gave each speaker his or her motivation. For example, Brown's saying is "No matter what anyone says, it is all up to you."
"We think that will be a really nice enhancement for this year," said Denise Raleigh, Gail Borden director of marketing. "Hopefully a lot of young people will come and realize if (the speakers) can do it, they can do it, too."
The event runs from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (847) 742-2411.
What: The fourth annual Black History Family Festival, featuring a host of events and guests, including speakers, authors, food tasting, music and more.
If you go
When: 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7.
Where: Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin
Cost: Admission is free, no reservations needed.
Info: (847) 742-2411 or visit gailborden.info