A Month of Reflection and Celebration
Black History Month is more than a commemoration of the past—it’s a celebration of resilience, excellence, and the ongoing contributions of Black communities. In South Minneapolis, Sabathani Community Center is leading the charge with a powerful lineup of events designed to honor history, empower local businesses, and uplift Black youth.
From economic empowerment to artistic expression and athletic competition, Sabathani’s Black History Month programming is a testament to the strength and vibrancy of the community.
Sabathani Wall Street Market: A Tribute to Black Enterprise
On Saturday, February 22, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the Sabathani Wall Street Market will shine a light on Black-owned businesses while paying homage to the historic 38th Street Corridor—once a thriving center of Black commerce, often referred to as “Black Wall Street.” Entrepreneurs and local organizations will gather at Sabathani Community Center’s First Floor Hallways to showcase their products, share resources, and engage with the community.
Attendees can expect an afternoon filled with shopping, entertainment, and food, featuring music by Dante’s Enferno (DJ Enferno) and refreshments from Green Garden Bakery. More than just a market, this event underscores Sabathani’s commitment to fostering economic empowerment and creating spaces where Black businesses can thrive.
Showtime at the Sabathani: Elevating Youth Voices
On Friday, February 28, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Sabathani, in collaboration with Don’t Shoot Guns Shoot Hoops and the Minnesota Agape Movement, will host Showtime at the Sabathani in the Sabathani Auditorium—a youth talent showcase celebrating Black creativity. Young performers will take the stage to share their gifts, whether through music, dance, spoken word, or poetry.
Special guest Lewiee Blaze, a renowned local rapper and activist, will headline the event, bringing his signature energy and message of empowerment. Aspiring artists under 24 are encouraged to register in advance for a chance to perform.
Who’s the King of the Court? A Battle for Bragging Rights
Basketball has always been a cultural pillar in the Black community, representing more than just a game—it’s a proving ground, a space for competition, camaraderie, and respect. On Saturday, March 1, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Sabathani will host a 2-on-2 Basketball Tournament & 3-Point Contest in the Sabathani Gym, in partnership with Don’t Shoot Guns Shoot Hoops.
Open to ages 13-18, the tournament will feature three brackets, each with eight teams competing for the title. Whether on the court or in the stands, this event is about more than just winning—it’s about community, sportsmanship, and the love of the game.
The Living History Museum: Preserving Local Legacies
The stories of Black Minneapolis deserve to be told, and Sabathani’s Living History Museum provides a platform to do just that. Open for self-guided visits during regular center hours, this immersive exhibit highlights the struggles, victories, and cultural contributions of South Minneapolis’ Black community, featuring corridors dedicated to key moments in history—from battles against housing discrimination to the artistic legacies of icons like Prince and Sounds of Blackness.
Nominations for individuals who have made a lasting impact on the community are open through February 22, 2025. Those selected will be inducted in the spring of 2025, ensuring their contributions are recognized and remembered for future generations.
A Legacy That Lives On
For decades, Sabathani Community Center has been a hub for Black culture, activism, and progress in Minneapolis. This Black History Month, its programming stands as a reminder that our history is still being written—through the businesses we build, the art we create, and the young people we uplift.
These events are not just celebrations; they are investments in the future. By supporting Black-owned businesses, elevating youth voices, and preserving our community’s history, Sabathani continues to do what it has always done—bring people together in the spirit of empowerment and excellence.
