Black History Month begins at the library

The Uniondale public library kicked off Black History Month with a slew of events this week, including a very indulgent and educational painting session where adult participants created their own paintings inspired by the work of Aaron Douglas, one of the most accomplished and influential visual artists of the Harlem Renaissance.

Douglas was renowned for his distinctive fusion of African and modernist art and made several significant contributions as a painter, muralist, and graphic designer. His iconic illustrations graced the pages of notable publications, and his powerful murals, notably at the New York Public Library's Countee Cullen Branch, depicted themes of African American history and culture.

Despite his lasting legacy and profound impact on the arts, Douglas is not a household name that many are familiar with.

“Most people know Martin Luther King Jr., Barack Obama, Rosa Parks, Malcolm X — and that's great to remember and celebrate them every year,” said Amanda Borgia, the librarian who ran the event. “But there are so many Black individuals who made history that people don't know,” she continued, “they created things like the potato chip, the stoplight, the mailbox, and so many other things that people just don't realize.”

Participants used stencils inspired by Douglas’ work to create their own masterpieces. “I have never painted before,” said Lark Logan, a Uniondale native. She told the herald that after Tuesday’s painting event, she has found a new hobby.

“I like to do isolated activities and throw on some Jazz in the background,” said Logan, “I surprised myself, I really enjoyed painting here and think this is something I’m going to start taking up at home as a new hobby.”

This was just one of the first of many hands-on celebrations taking place at the library for Black History Month. Looking ahead, the library has lined up a series of educational sessions, including a class designed for 6th through 12th graders that dives into the stories of different African-American inventors, shedding light on their remarkable contributions to society — with a special focus on George Speck, the visionary chef credited with the invention of potato chips.

Students will not only explore the history of Speck's culinary innovation but will also embark on a flavorful journey through a taste test featuring an array of potato chips.

“If you have food, the teens will come,” Borgia said jokingly.