The City of Chandler celebrates Black…

CHANDLER, Ariz. - There is no shortage of events to celebrate Black History Month in the City of Chandler this month with events from the city's Connection & Impact Division, the Shining Light Foundation and South Chandler Self-Help Foundation.

Events will be held at various locations in Chandler with something for all ages to enjoy. Mark your calendar for the following events:

• AILEY II
  Friday, Feb. 6 | 7:30 p.m. | Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave.
  Ailey II, the next generation of dance, is universally renowned for offering early-career dancers vital experience to transition from a student to a professional dancer. Ailey II is a modern dance company founded by the incomparable dancer Alvin Ailey that provides a platform for diverse artists to share the joy and beauty of dance with audiences worldwide. Under artistic director Francesca Harper, in her fourth season leading the company, Ailey II will perform a dynamic program showcasing its prowess and "off-the-charts energy." Tickets available for purchase.
  
• Tribute to Local Heroes: Black History Mural Project
  Saturday, Feb. 7 | Noon-3 p.m. | Chandler Public Library - Downtown, 22 S. Delaware St.
  The Shining Light Foundation proudly honors local heroes Coy Payne and N.J. Harris during a special tribute for Black History Month. Complimentary doughnuts and coffee will be served outside the library from noon-1 p.m. with the program to follow in the Copper Room. This event celebrates the extraordinary contributions of Payne and Harris to the community, highlighting their commitment to economic empowerment and positive change. Attendees will enjoy an inspiring afternoon of storytelling, mural unveiling and reflections on how their relentless dedication has uplifted lives and fostered unity within the community.
  
• Tribute to Blues and Jazz
  Saturday, Feb. 14 | 1-3 p.m. | QuartHaus, 201 S. Washington St.
  The Shining Light Foundation proudly presents "Rhythms of Resilience: Celebrating Blues and Jazz Legends," a vibrant tribute to the icons who have shaped the music landscape. This immersive event will showcase the rich history and cultural significance of Blues and Jazz, featuring live performances by talented Arizona musicians who pay homage to the legends of these genres. Reserve your spot for this free event.
  
• Black History Celebration 2026 Rhythm of Our Roots
  Friday, Feb. 20 | 5:45 p.m. | Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave.
  Join the South Chandler Self-Help Foundation for a Black history walk through time in music with DJ Carlos Beat, live music by Arvin Dismuke and dinner prepared by Chef Apoilon. Doors open at 6 p.m. with dinner service beginning at 7 p.m. Purchase your tickets today.
  
• Tribute to the Till Family
  Thursday, Feb. 26 | 10:30 a.m. | Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Road
  The Shining Light Foundation invites you to celebrate "Emett Till and the Till Family: A Legacy of Courage and Change." This vibrant tribute honors the life of Emmett Till, whose spirit and story sparked a powerful movement for civil rights and social justice in America, and features inspiring speeches from historians and the Till family, uplifting performances, and a panel discussion that highlights the legacy of Black history.
  
• Black History Month Community Movie Night
  Friday, Feb. 26 | Reception 4:45-6 p.m. | Film screening 6 p.m. | Majestic Chandler 9 Theater, 4955 S. Arizona Ave.
  Join the City of Chandler's Connection & Impact Division for an evening of connection, conversation and community. Black History Month Community Movie Night begins with a welcoming Connection Reception, where guests can enjoy pizza (included with admission) while connecting with fellow attendees and community leaders. During the reception, local nonprofits and community organizations will host tables in the lobby, offering opportunities to learn about their work. Following the reception, attendees will enjoy a screening of the powerful and historic film "Selma," which tells the story of courage, leadership and the ongoing pursuit of justice. Tickets are $8 and include the Connection Reception, pizza and the film screening. Seating is limited.
  
• Tribute to the Women of the Civil Rights Movement
  Saturday, Feb. 28 | 11 a.m. | Tumbleweed Recreation Center, 745 E. Germann Road
  Join the Shining Light Foundation for "Heroines of History: Celebrating Women of the Movement," an inspiring tribute dedicated to the fearless women who have shaped social justice and civil rights throughout history. This empowering event will feature impactful presentations, storytelling and live performances that honor the contributions of trailblazing women who fought for equality, justice and change for all.

To learn more about these events and Black History in the City of Chandler, visit Black History Month.

Media contacts:
Gizette Knight
President/CEO, Shining Light Foundation
347-396-0436

Betsy Lizer
Public Information Officer, City of Chandler
480-782-2225