Celebrate Black History Month with Cristina McCarter + Things To Do This Week

What's your favorite Black-owned restaurant in Memphis? What's your go-to order?

My favorite black owned restaurant would have to be Biscuits & Jams. I’m so excited Chef Mo is expanding to Hotel Indigo in Downtown Memphis so I can enjoy the crawfish and shrimp benedict all the time. My kids favorite dish is the bacon stuffed waffle. 

What's your favorite Black-owned business in Memphis? Why? 

My favorite black owned business hands-down is A Tour of Possibilities owned by Carolyn Michael-Banks. The knowledge that you gain from this tour every time you take it is immeasurable and I’m glad to have known her for quite some time. Now in the tourism industry the work she is doing is needed for everyone no matter where you come from or who you are. 

Who's your favorite Black artist/creator/musician from Memphis?

I’m forever going to shout my dad, Mosal Morzart, out for being an amazing visual artist in the city. He has abstract art all over the city. 

What is your definition of Black culture in Memphis?

Memphis black culture is the culture that has helped shape black culture for all of America. We have helped millions of black Americans feel connected to something versus continuing to search in the unknown. We have something to hold on to that is visible and worthy of being celebrated. I love how we unapologetically claim every beauty and flaw of this city and I’m forever grateful to have been born here.

Tell me your favorite Black history fact in relation to Memphis!

I loved learning the story of Robert R. Church during a Memphis History course in college. He took advantage of an opportunity and not just for himself for others too. He created unique experiences and job opportunities for so many. It has inspired me to keep a unique spirit and fierceness when moving through this city and any opportunities that aren’t normally presented to us. 

Explore Snapshots of the Black Experience at MOSH. You’ll see a rare glimpse into life of twentieth-century African Americans through candid photos.

See a special Black History Month art exhibit at WKNO, A Memphis of Hope Art Show. Memphis artists of diverse ages, cultures, and backgrounds have come together in an exhibition with a display of artwork that inspires hope, love, unity, and peace for our city.

Every Thursday in February: Create Images in Color with a four-part workshop series exploring Black History through photography. The workshop will also explore Black photojournalism and pathways to success and Black history through The Withers Collection Museum & Gallery.

Every Saturday and Sunday in February: Learn about the lives and influence of Black Memphians throughout our city’s history.

February 14: Wine down (or turn up) at The Hump Day Wine Down Game Nights at the House of Soulz. Enjoy good vibes, live DJ, free wine, free Jell-O shots, classic games and group play games each Wednesday.

February 16: Sing Hallelujah at The Sound Awards. This event promises to be an uplifting celebration of exceptional talents in Gospel Music.

 

 

 

 

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February 17: Vibe to the R&B Super Jam. The performance is headlined by Tyrese and Anthony Hamilton plus appearances by Dru Hill, Next and Silk.

February 18: Uncover the secrets at the Soulful Murder Mystery Dinner Theater Experience. This interactive event combines the suspense of solving a mystery with the soulful ambiance of live performances.

February 21: Discuss “The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store” by James McBride, one of Barack Obama’s favorite books in 2023. Bringing his masterly storytelling skills and his deep faith in humanity to The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store, James McBride has written a novel as compassionate as Deacon King Kong and as inventive as The Good Lord Bird.

February 21: See a screening of Bobi Wine: The People’s President. Indie Memphis presents a screening of the Academy Award nominated film.