Black History Month activities are bringing valley residents joy over the weekend

The Inaugural City of Indio Black History event is open to all. They have an exciting day to celebrate the rich heritage of Black culture both globally and locally.

A local performing arts student came home to share her talents for the inaugural Black History Month festival in Indio. Janae Morris danced and shared inspiring poetry during the event. "It's really nice to walk around here and see kids and adults that look just like me and that we can celebrate and have a good time together," says Morris.

Morris says celebrating black history growing up was always a big potluck.

But this time, we're like, let's expand and invite the city to this giant family potluck," says Morris.

Another attendee says, "I love that I get to inspire other young girls like me,." Her name is Janiah Williams. Her father works with the Palm Springs Unified District, and her mother, Emerald Williams, is a District Leader with Primerica. She had a booth at the event. "It's very important that we start teaching the importance of generational wealth and how to do that," says Emerald Williams.

Darnell Reed led his church choir, singing gospel songs -- with a message of love.

"Everything is based on love. If this world can learn if this city we learn how to love, we can let the rest of the cities use Indio as a blueprint to change the world," says Reed.

Some of your favorite local food vendors were on-site, and local mental health and education professionals held panels. Community awards were given to leaders in the community. There were medical booths, arts and crafts, and games for the children, all part of the day's festivities.

The Williams family says representation and learning from the past are the messages they hope people take with them."I get to build off of what my ancestors have already created," says Janiah.

In Indio, local choirs sing Lift Every Voice and Sing and share their talents throughout the day to celebrate Black History Month. A variety of musical performances, songs, and poetry are on schedule.

Vendors and booths are lined up to sell goods and pass out information. You can experience arts and crafts/face painting at the event. There will be some of your local favorite food trucks. It is an outdoor event, so there will be many chances to play games and sports. The event has an educational moment with a few panel discussions. Some leaders will be honored and receive Community Awards.

Saturday, February 17th at 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Downtown Indio at Smurr and Miles Street.

The event's sponsors are the city of Indio, Desert Recreation District, A.A.P.A.C.