February’s annual Black History Month honors the achievements of African Americans and recognizes the central role of black Americans in history. It’s been a long time coming, but since 1976 every U.S. president has designated February as Black History Month.
Historian Carter G. Woodson and The Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, the organization he founded, created the precursor to the national observance in 1926 with “Negro History Week.” The second week in February event coincided with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (Feb.12) and Frederick Douglass (Feb. 14). Woodson wanted to celebrate the stories that had long been neglected throughout history, stories we may never have heard.
Woodson’s idea eventually turned into Black History Month. A month-long Black History tribute was first proposed by black educators and the Black United Students organization at Ohio’s Kent State University in February of 1969. Campus held the first Black History Month the following year.
It was President Gerald Ford who first recognized Black History Month as a national event in 1976. He called upon Americans to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
What better way to celebrate the contributions of African Americans than breaking bread with family? Westside’s Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours is serving up a fitting tribute each week of the month. “To me, this is a way to honor the significance of Black history Month while also fostering family togetherness through the traditional family supper,” said chef/owner Deborah VanTrece.
Each Wednesday in February Twisted Soul will serve a family supper menu with all the trimmings, served family style. The beloved event of family supper brings extended family together to share a feast and create memories. Twisted Soul’s will also bring community together. “It is a time where families can enjoy a meal while discussing the many issues facing families today, and that includes the past history for black Americans and issues facing all of us,” said VanTrece about the evenings.
Black History Month suppers are from 5 to 10 p.m., $12-$15 per person. Children five and younger are complimentary. Every meal comes with sweet potato biscuits and cornbread as well as Chef’s Choice Dessert.
Wednesday, February 5: Southern marinated fried chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy and green beans.
Wednesday, February 12: Smothered turkey wings with seasoned rice and fried cabbage.
Wednesday, February 19: Vegetarian Supper features chicken fried tofu with tomato jalapeno relish, red beans, Carolina Gold rice, and slow-braised greens.
Wednesday, February 26: Fried catfish with creamy pimento cheese grits and coleslaw.
Reservations are strongly recommended. Twisted Soul will also have its regular menu of soulful Southern dishes with global influence available.
Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours (1133 Huff Rd. Atlanta; 404-350-5500, twistedsoulcookhouseandpours.com)
