Black Heritage Celebration set for Feb. 13

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The 27th Annual Black Heritage Celebration will be held on Feb. 13, 2012 at the Greater Mount Olive Baptist Church, 1020 NE 42nd Street in Oklahoma City, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The theme of this year's event is "Eyes on the Horizon."

The event celebrates the culture and significant contributions of African-Americans as the nation observes Black History Month. The event is open to the public and it is sponsored by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS), the Oklahoma Historical Society, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections and the Oklahoma Corporation Commission.

Several awards will be presented during the festivities.

Calvin Luper and Marilyn Luper-Hildrith will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award; Maye Etta Nolen and Joyce Jackson will receive the Trailblazer Award; LaTasha Ingram will be honored with the Meritorious Service Award; and the University of Oklahoma Black Student Association will receive the Black Heritage Leadership Award.

A theatrical play entitled, "Sitting-in With Clara" will also be presented. The play tells the story of civil rights activist Clara Luper. During her life, Luper was an advocate for the integration of public accommodation and is recognized for her leadership in the "sit-in" movement.

Brian Creal with OKDHS 55C will serve as Master of Ceremonies and entertainment includes the OKDHS Muskogee County Choir and other OKDHS staff.

For more information, contact Anetta Cooper at (405) 819-8320 or Vicki Pettiford at (405) 522-1611.

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