By Kari Barnett, South Florida Sun-Sentinel,

10 hours ago

February is Black History Month, and South Florida is honoring the occasion with a variety of activities that salute the accomplishments of Black Americans.

Whether you choose to enjoy a parade or festival, watch music and dance performances, or explore art exhibits, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) asks all to consider this year’s theme: “ African Americans and Labor .”

The ASALH, which founded Black History Month, is acknowledging the integral role that work plays in Black history and culture — from the agricultural labor of enslaved Africans and compensated labor in factories to the military and social justice activists.

So, why was February chosen for the monthlong observation?

“Because it encompasses the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass — both men being great American symbols of freedom,” according to ASALH.org .

Below are some ways to commemorate Black History Month in Broward and Palm Beach counties. We will keep updating this roundup.

BROWARD COUNTY

The system has a full schedule of events planned throughout the month, including story times, lectures, film screenings, book discussions and performances that recognize and explore the achievements of Black Americans and their contributions to the United States. One exhibit, “Reveal the Beauty: The Literature and Art of the Harlem Renaissance,” will be on display from Monday, Feb. 3, through Saturday, June 28, at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd. An opening reception is set for 6 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1. Free admission. Visit broward.org/library.

The annual presented by the city of Deerfield Beach Parks and Recreation Department and the African American Heritage Board, will honor the cultural history of Black Americans locally and nationally with food, performances and speakers from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Feb. 22 at DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton, 100 Fairway Drive. Awards will be handed out to those demonstrating commitment in their professional endeavors, humanitarianism and public service. Cost is $40. Visit deerfield-beach.com .

A will be presented by the city’s African American Advisory Council from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at the Washington Park Community Center, 5199 Pembroke Road, featuring artists and speakers. Free. Visit hollywoodfl.org.

The 17th annual is set for Saturday, Feb. 1, with the parade starting at 8:30 a.m. at Central Charter School, 4515 N. State Road 7, and ending at Vincent Torres Park, 4331 NW 36th St., where the festival begins at 10:30 a.m. Expect vendors, artists, entrepreneurs and food. Free admission. Visit blackexcellencefest.net.

is bringing the sounds of R&B, funk and reggae to the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, 3800 NW 11th Place, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8. Organized by the city and the MLK Task Force Committee, the event will have performances by Jeffrey Osborne, Lenny Williams, Surface, and the Old Skool Gang. VIP reception is at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $70 to $200. Visit lauderhill-fl.gov.

hosted by Mayor Wayne Messam, will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12, at Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Place, with legal professionals, partnering organizations and the curator of the “Supreme Power art exhibit.” Free. Register at eventbrite.com. The photographic exhibit, which looks at Supreme Court cases that have impacted people of color in America, is on display through Monday, March 3, at the Ansin Family Art Gallery, 2400 Civic Center Place. Free admission. Visit miramarculturalcenter.org.

will acknowledge the contributions and achievements of the Black and Caribbean communities from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, at Jaco Pastorius Park, 4000 N. Dixie Highway. There will be a children’s activity area, music and food trucks. Free. Visit oaklandparkfl.gov.

PALM BEACH COUNTY

The Palm Beach County Library System will commemorate Black History Month with activities at various branches. You’ll find book discussions, story times, movie screenings, trivia sessions, crafts, and musical and dance performances. Visit pbclibrary.org for a full schedule of events.

Say It Loud will showcase Black culture and artistry through performances, interactive exhibits, panel discussions and immersive experiences from 4 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16, at the Boynton Beach Arts & Cultural Center, 125 E. Ocean Ave. Cost is $15 through Saturday, Feb. 1; $25 for general admission and $40 for VIP. Visit boynton-beach.org.

Delray Beach

West Palm Beach