Brighton, N.Y. — Honoring Black History Month, the town of Brighton hosted a celebration highlighting the arts, particularly music, poetry, and visual arts along with recognizing artists of the Black community’s contributions to the mediums.

One speaker, artist Shawn Dunwoody, underscored the integral role of art in Black history and Black history in art.

“The wave of creativity that rides throughout the African American community should be recognized, celebrated, and understood,” said Shawn Dunwoody, community connector. “It’s important that we understand that the birth of many great things of this country, of American history, is African American history.”

Dunwoody says events like this are integral for different perspectives to unite in a common understanding.

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