Black History Month in Virginia

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February is Black History Month. Learn more about Black history in Virginia, as well as ways to celebrate.

Spotlight

Throughout the month of February, notable Black men and women of Virginia's history will be featured.

Photo of Jennifer McClellan

Jennifer McClellan

Biography

Jennifer McClellan is Virginia’s first black congresswoman. She entered the U.S. Congress in 2023 after winning a special election to replace the late Congressman A. Donald McEachin.

A Virginia native, McClellan was born in Petersburg to parents who served the community: her father was a professor at Virginia State University and her mother was a counselor at VSU. McClellan attended Matoaca High School in Chesterfield County, where she was valedictorian. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Richmond, then obtained her Juris Doctorate from the University of Virginia School of Law.

Learn More about Jennifer McClellan

John Mitchell Jr.

Featured Man

As editor of the Richmond Planet, Mitchell was a leading voice in favor of racial equality and against segregation. Influential in Jackson Ward, the Black Wall Street of America, Mitchell founded and served as president of the Mechanics Savings Bank. Born a slave in Richmond shortly before the end of the Civil War, Mitchell's mother taught him to read. Her son went on to serve as a city alderman and even ran for governor as a Republican in 1921.

Learn More about John Mitchell Jr.

Photo of Errika Hamer

Erikka Hamer

Biography

A creative and visionary professional, Erikka serves through her government public service position daily. Her own firm, Savoy Events, curates and manages social experiences including cultural pop-up events and curated nightlife experiences. Erikka is highly driven to serve her community and manages events including The Black upStart and Positive Role Models to benefit others striving to succeed. 

Learn More about Erikka Hamer

Looking for additional featured people?

To view the archived featured list of notable black men and women of Virginia featured on Virginia.gov click the button below.

View Full List

Learn

Check out the resources below to learn more on Black history in Virginia.

Attractions

Below is a brief featured list of Black history attractions that provide great resources for learning more about Black history in Virginia.

Featured Attractions

More Attractions

Click below to view more Virginia Black history attractions.

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Celebrate

Celebrate Black History Month in Virginia by participating in a variety of events.

2024 Black History Month Events In Virginia