City of Bloomington Celebrates Black History Month with Poster Contest and Community Events

The City of Bloomington’s Black History Month Committee invites the community to take part in the 2025 Black History Month Poster Contest and a series of events honoring Black history, culture, and contributions.

This year’s theme, “African Americans and Labor: From Slave Ships to the White House,” highlights the role of Black Americans in shaping industries, communities, and civil rights movements throughout history. The Poster Contest & Awards Ceremony will provide a platform for students to present their work and engage in meaningful discussions about historical and contemporary labor contributions.

Poster Board Contest & Awards
This event will take place on Saturday, February 22, 2025, with a noon reception followed by the 1 p.m. award ceremony at City Hall (401 N. Morton St.). 

Students from grades 4-12 will present their research and creative work, with prizes awarded to the top three submissions in each age category. First-place winners will receive an iPad, with additional cash prizes for second and third place. The event is free and open to the public.

Students interested in participating can find contest details at bloomington.in.gov/bhm.

Additional Black History Month Events
Black Market
Saturday, February 15, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at City Hall
A showcase of Black-owned businesses, creators, and organizations honoring the legacy of Bloomington’s original Black Market, which was tragically firebombed in 1968.

Black History Month Poster Ceremony
Saturday, February 22, 12 p.m. at City Hall
A recognition of student creativity and historical research featuring the winners of the 2025 Poster Contest.

Black History Month Gala
Saturday, March 1, 6 p.m. at Monroe Convention Center
An evening of dining, music, and recognition of the 2025 Living Legend recipients and the Outstanding Black Leaders of Tomorrow. Tickets are available at bctboxoffice.org or by calling 812-323-3020.
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For the full list of Black History Month events, visit bloomington.in.gov/bhm. For more information, contact Andrew Shannon at [email protected] or 812-349-3430.