Using the annual Black History theme, high school students write and orate an original essay. The students are encouraged to think deeply and broadly about the subject, focusing on the impact of the theme on past, present and future Black society. The young people are offered coaching and support over the weeks leading up to the competition. This year’s Association for the Study of African American Life and History national theme is African Americans and the Arts.
At this event, finalists present their orations in six minutes to a panel of judges. They are scored on content, presentation, and persuasion. Students receive cash and other prizes.
Read the full executive summary on the 2024 theme Arican Americans and the Arts online atasalh.org
Upcoming Events
$15
The festival strives to connect the audience to Mexico through cultural entertainment, creating the most authentic experience. The festival is for all audiences, and every event is open to the general public. Every film has English subtitles.
Free
The Downtown Santa Monica Farmers Market is widely recognized as one of the largest and most diverse Certified Farmers Markets in the nation. Residents, out-of-town visitors, celebrities, and many of Los Angeles’ best-known chefs and restaurants can be found shopping at this location, which features over 60 California farms. The market is held weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Free
LéaLA, the premier Spanish Book Fair & Literary Festival, returns from September 19-22, 2024, at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes located at 501 N. Main Street in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. Organized by the University of Guadalajara Foundation USA, this year’s event, themed Building Peace Together, celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month by honoring the rich traditions, language, and culture of the Latino community through literature, art, and intellectual dialogue. As part of Hispanic Heritage Month, LéaLA will highlight…
Hogar Dulce Hogar explores the profound meaning of home amidst global migration. Curated by César García, the exhibition showcases 18 artists from the Inland Empire, challenging traditional notions of home and emphasizing its dynamic nature. Through diverse mediums, the exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the universal longing for home and the resilience of the human spirit. See website for prices.
Over the past year and a half, artists and collectors have donated 80 works by almost 35 artists to The Cheech Center Collection. This year’s exhibition will highlight some new additions alongside works from Cheech Marin’s initial gift of 500 works. The latest exhibition, Cheech Collects, explores different forms within the Cheech Marin Collection. It introduces photography and sculpture alongside paintings, prints, and mixed media works for which the collection is celebrated. See website for ticket prices.
