Exploring History and Culture in Central Minnesota is an annual February event series hosted by four central Minnesota county historical societies - Morrison, Benton, Sherburne and Stearns. The series seeks to foster greater understanding and awareness of cultures that have been and continue to be part of Minnesota and its history. This year's programming will be presented by the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery (MAAHMG) and will feature three presentations on consecutive Saturdays in February - February 6th, February 13th, and February 20th. The event on February 13th, The Role of the Arts and Artists in Social Justice Movements, will feature a combination of videos and panel discussion. Participants will view two videos created by MAAHMG - the making of the Black Lives Matter mural and Un-Heard. There will also be a panel discussion with artists, Melodee Strong and Joe Davis. The panel discussion will be moderated by Georgia Fort and will include the Black Lives Matter mural in Minneapolis, public art, and the role that artists have played in the fight for racial justice in the Twin Cities, particularly after the killing of George Floyd. The panel will discuss how art can bring about social change and spur people to action. The event will include a Q&A session and is free and open to all. Registration is required.

Exploring History and Culture in Central Minnesota - The Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery event series is sponsored by Sourcewell and by Rethos: Places Reimagined.