Here are some more Black History Month events and happenings in West Philly. If you missed our post on what’s happening at the Free Library of Philadelphia branches in celebration of Black History Month, click here.

• People’s Emergency Center (PEC) and the AIDS Healthcare Foundation are sponsoring an essay/arts contest for Black History Month. This year’s theme is “Share your vision of peace through love for your neighbor,” and submissions are accepted in one of three formats: a written essay (250-500 words), spoken word (1-minute limit), or visual arts (submit as a jpg or png image). The winner in each category will receive a $100 gift card! Last date to submit is February 21. Please send submissions to: kevinb@pec-cares.org 

• PEC Community Connectors are a group of young leaders from the West Philadelphia neighborhoods served by PEC, such as West Powelton, Mantua and Saunders Park. They participate in on the job training in civic leadership, program development, engagement and outreach. This month they have developed a social media campaign called Black History Moments being featured on PEC’s social media channels. Follow PEC’s Facebook page or Instagram page for these young leaders’ insights.

• In partnership with the National Marian Anderson Museum and Historical Society, the Penn Museum will honor the groundbreaking opera singer’s extraordinary achievements through public programs during Black History Month. As the first Black woman to perform with the New York Metropolitan Opera in 1955, Anderson became an iconic figure in the struggle for civil rights. One of her gowns is now on display inside the Penn Museum’s The Stories We Wear exhibition.

• Documenting a 70-year courtship and one of the greatest romantic stories of all time, the National Marian Anderson Museum and Historical Society will host “The Letters,” a reading of the personal correspondence between Anderson and her husband, along with accompanying music, Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022 at 4:00 p.m., inside Harrison Auditorium at the Penn Museum. (Cost: $30 for general admission to the concert only. $50 for the concert and a private reception.) Go here for more information and to purchase tickets.