Brooklyn courts celebrate Black History Month with arts and talent showcases

February 2, 2024 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

Brooklyn's court system celebrates Black History Month with a series of arts and talent events across multiple courthouses, coordinated by the Kings County Courts Black History Month Committee.
Photo: Robert Abruzzese/Brooklyn Eagle

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Brooklyn’s court system is marking Black History Month 2024 with a vibrant array of events under the theme “African Americans and the Arts: Creativity is the Heart and Soul of African-American People.”

This year’s celebration, coordinated by the Kings County Court’s Black History Month Committee, co-chaired by Leah Richardson and Appellate Division, Second Department Justice Deborah Dowling, promises an engaging lineup across multiple courthouses.

For over a quarter-century, the Brooklyn courts have dedicated February to recognizing the contributions of African Americans, with each court now hosting its own program. The Supreme Court is set to feature nearly 10 events, including a talent show on Valentine’s Day and discussions on the impact of African-American music and culture.

The Brooklyn Civil Court at 141 Livingston St. will kick off the events on Thursday, Feb. 8. Following this, the Brooklyn Criminal Court at 120 Schermerhorn St. will host its program on Thursday, Feb. 22. The Brooklyn Family Court at 330 Jay St. is set for Monday, Feb. 26, leading up to the William C. Thompson Awards at the Appellate Division, Second Department, at 45 Monroe Place on Wednesday, Feb. 28, in honor of the former presiding justice.

The Kings County Supreme Court, Criminal Term will host a screening of “The Summer of Soul” over two days on Feb. 5 and 7, and is anticipating a significant turnout for the talent show on Feb. 14. Other planned activities at 320 Jay St. include a discussion with DJ Bugsy on Feb. 16, a unique game show on Feb. 21, a children’s program on Feb. 23, and an event by the Tribune Society on Feb. 27.

The month’s festivities will culminate in a grand fashion show finale at the Supreme Court, Civil Term, at 360 Adams St. on Feb. 29, where judges and court employees will participate in a fashion show, showcasing the vibrancy and dynamism of African American culture and heritage.

This celebration not only honors Black History Month but also serves to bring together the local legal community and the public in a shared appreciation of the arts and the enduring spirit of the Black community.