Trace the whole narrative of Decatur’s Black history, from the deep roots of its earliest days to the brave, unsung acts of our local Civil Rights leaders. We’re committed to sharing the whole story and celebrating the vibrant culture, creativity, and resilience of today’s artists, entrepreneurs, and leaders. Here are some great ways to celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth:
Black History Walking Tour
Put on your walking shoes for a self-guided tour. Visit 12 points of interest around Decatur that highlight the contributions of our Black community members, including the permanent Beacon Community Exhibit. The MLK historical marker and timeline at the corner of W. Trinity Place and McDonough Street tells the story about the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s impactful time in Decatur.
Explore Public Art
See public art created by Black artists. “What Sonia Said” by Ellex Swavoni stands prominently on the site of Decatur’s historic Beacon Hill community. The sculpture is a tribute to the strength, heroism, and resilience of Black communities, and is a part of the Art For The People Project, a collaboration with Beacon Hill Black Alliance for Human Rights.
The Decatur Box Project installation at W. Trinity and North McDonough by Fabian Williams features social activist Reverend William Barber. Look up for “Signs of Solidarity” around Decatur High School. The signs were commissioned in 2020 in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. Spot Secret Door “Luna’s Rays” by Brea T’Ann around Oakhurst Recreation Center. All three projects are organized by Decatur Arts Alliance.
Traveling on MARTA? The Decatur Avondale Station features two stand-out installations: “The Journey We Traveled” by Derrick Phillips, Sr. and “Transfer” by James Wright, Sr. Both works are part of the Black Artists Matter collaboration between Decatur Arts Alliance and MARTA Artbound.
Praise House is a public art installation at Beacon Hill by artist-activist Charmaine Minnifield that commemorates Decatur’s historic Black community.
Celebrate At An Event
Attend “Breaking Ground,” an afternoon of storytelling, community, music, and literary engagement presented by Decatur Arts Alliance. The event is February 16 from 4-6 pm at Legacy Park. Admission is free.
Attend the DeKalb History Center’s 2025 Black History Month celebration, “Love Letters to the Caribbean.” The ticketed event is February 27 at 11 am at the DeKalb History Center.
Support Black-Owned Businesses
Shop at our locally beloved black-owned businesses in Decatur. Browse for new reads for youngsters at Brave and Kind Books. Owner Bunnie Hilliard stocks the shelves with diverse stories that inspire bravery and kindness everyday. Get your glow on with lush, green beauty at Olive Branch Wellness. Owner Ty Jenkins focuses on all-natural, vegan, and organic skincare that will make your skin oh-so-happy.
Find a new ‘fit. Squash Blossom Boutique’s owner Lisa Bob curates artistic, whimsical women’s fashion, and Bleu Hanger features bold prints and flirty silhouettes. Sole Play delivers the latest in streetwear: limited edition sneakers, trendy graphic tees, and cutting edge athletic wear.
Looking for something sweet? Taste test The Cereal Lab and Diamond Dust Cupcakes.
