Black History Month

The UCF-produced documentary “Marching Forward” tells the story of two high school bands in segregated Orlando and their trip to the World’s Fair in 1964. Joining Intersection to discuss the legacy of Jones High School band director James “Chief” Wilson are Dr. Carl MaultsBy, who composed music for the film, and Nina Wilson Jones, Wilson’s daughter.

Storytelling plays a key role in cultural identity. This Thursday, Dr. Obi Nwakanma will join an online discussion hosted by the Orange County Regional History Center to discuss the power of words and the role of storytelling in African tradition and the African-American cultural experience. Nwakanma, who grew up in Nigeria, is a professor of English and Africana studies at UCF, as well as a poet and novelist. He joins Intersection to talk about the connection between African and African-American literature and the role of poetry in society.

The Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture is celebrating its 20th anniversary this month. Once a hotel, the Wells’Built gave lodging to important figures such as Thurgood Marshall, Ray Charles and Jackie Robinson at a time when no other hotels would rent rooms to African-Americans. Elizabeth Thompson, who is on the board of the Association to Preserve African American Society, History and Tradition, joins Intersection to discuss the museum’s past and mission to preserve local African-American history.

Vashti Harrison's new picture book showcases black leaders throughout American history — but not just the big names. She also focuses on artists, athletes and scientists who may be less well-known.