Black History Month 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Isa S. Chu, Marketing Manager, isa@oigc.org, (510) 587-9409
OAKLAND INTERFAITH GOSPEL CHOIR IGNITES BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH SERIES OF EVENTS ACROSS THE BAY AREA.
A Multifaceted Celebration Featuring Dynamic Performances, a Film Screening, and Youth Engagement in OIGC's Black History Month Festivities
Oakland, CA (January 30, 2024) – Throughout February, the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir (OIGC) will host a variety of events spanning four cities: Oakland, Berkeley, San Francisco, and Corte Madera. These events will showcase the power of Black gospel music as a vehicle for cultural celebration and social change, highlighting both Black history and local narratives.
The festivities kick off on Sunday, February 11 at 7:00 PM at the Freight & Salvage in Berkeley, followed by a free performance at the Corte Madera Library on Thursday, February 15 at 6:00 PM. The namesake Gospel Choir will then take the stage for a special family matinee at SFJAZZ on Saturday, February 17 at 11:00 AM before concluding the series with OIGC Youth Program’s Black History Month Concert on Saturday, February 24 at 2:00 PM at Imani Community Church in Oakland.
SUN, Feb 11, 7 PM – Freight & Salvage
THU, Feb 15, 6 PM – ONE VOICE Screening
SAT, Feb 17, 11 AM – SFJAZZ Family Matinee
SAT, Feb 24, 2 PM – OIGC Youth BHM Concert
"Through music and community, we honor the legacy of Black history and its profound impact on our society," said Terrance Kelly, Founding Artistic Director of the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir. "These events serve as a reminder of our shared history and the importance of holding these stories and passing them down to future generations."
La Nell Martin, Youth Program Director of OIGC, added, "Our youth play a vital role in preserving and carrying forward the traditions of Black history. These events provide an opportunity for them to engage with this legacy in a meaningful way, fostering understanding and appreciation for our cultural heritage."
The Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir invites everyone to join in the celebration of Black history and local history at these upcoming events. For more information and ticket links, visit: www.oigc.org/events.
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About the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir
Founded in 1986 by Terrance Kelly, the mission of the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Inc. is to inspire joy and unity among all people through Black gospel and spiritual music traditions. The Community Engagement Program features accessible ensembles like the Oakland Interfaith Community Choir and Kids Choir and reaching underserved communities. In 2022, the acquisition the Oakland Youth Chorus expanded their youth program from two to five ensembles. With over 300 singers from a wide range of faiths, races, and cultures, every performance helps to preserve Black gospel music and spirituals for future generations and encourage diverse audiences throughout the community to participate. Learn more at www.oigc.org.
