The California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) and its supporting departments, invite you to celebrate Black History Month with us. Through virtual and in-person events, we will be honoring Black leaders in the environmental field, who work to protect the environment for current and future generations and encourage others to become environmental stewards.
Celebrate this year’s Black History Month with our theme “Black Voices Thriving in Conservation.” This theme honors the contributions of African Americans in conservation, the environment, and natural resources. The month will feature virtual and in-person events commemorating the month, including a Secretary Speaker series and various events for us to connect and learn about Black History.
Every Weekend in February
Afro-Latinidad Presence in Early California
Time: 10 am – 3 pm
Location: Pio Pico State Historic Park, 6003 Pioneer Blvd, Whittier, CA 90606
Description: Join us in celebrating the story of Afro-Latine in early California with an exhibition and family activities. This event explores the contributions of Afro-descendants who played a role in shaping the state’s history, from establishing towns and ranches to influencing political and social landscapes. Through engaging displays and discussion, we’ll explore the history from the Anza Expedition, the challenges faced under shift to U.S. rule and how Afro-Latine communities shaped the culture of California. This event offers an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of California and engage in conversations of racial, ethnic and social dynamics that continue to resonate today.
Cost: Free
Tuesday, February 4, 2025
2nd Annual Lunchtime Community Connections Mixer
Time: 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Description: The California Natural Resources Agency Black History Month Committee (BHM) and the Getaway Café are pleased to present the 2nd Annual Lunchtime Community Connections mixer in the headquarters cafeteria. The Getaway Café will be serving a culture-centric meal as the special of the day and the committee will have games available to promote community, networking and allyship. Have lunch in the cafeteria, network and bring your best game for the dominoes duel and spades showdown! Registration not required.
Address: Jesse’s Getaway Café at 715 P. Street, Sacramento
Saturday February 8, 2025
Black History Month in the Park
Time: 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
Location: Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, 4011 Grant Dr, Allensworth, CA 93219
Description: Friends of Allensworth invite you to attend Black History month in the Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, sharing the story of Allensworth with others to educate and inspire future generations. Activities and events include food vendors, park tours, arts and crafts, and music poetry and learning about Black history.
Cost: $10 vehicles, $50 Small bus, $75 large bus
Registration/Questions: info@friendsofallensworth.com
Saturday, February 8th 2025
A Celebration of Heritage and Unity at California Citrus State Historic Park
Time: 4:00 pm -6:00 pm
Location: California Citrus State Historic Park, 9400 Dufferin Ave, Riverside, CA 92503
Description: Join us for an afternoon celebrating Black History Month and local history!
Enjoy live music by Bobcat and Lady Danger at the amphitheater, listen to storytelling, watch dance and learn about local history about Black families involved in the citrus industry. Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy while you listen to music and take in the park.
Cost: $7 per car for parking or $6 for cars with seniors.
Tuesday, February 18th, 2025
Black Professionals in California Natural Resources
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Description:Join us for a dynamic and inspiring webinar, spotlighting the achievements of Black American professionals in California's natural resources sector. Hear what Black History Month means to them, their insights for aspiring professionals seeking meaningful careers in natural resources, and the valuable lessons they’ve learned along the way. This engaging event offers a unique opportunity to connect, gain practical advice and celebrate the impact of Black and African American leadership in shaping California’s natural environment. The discussion will include a Q&A session, allowing participants to ask questions and engage directly with the speakers. Whether you’re starting your career or exploring opportunities in natural resources, this webinar is a space to learn, grow, and be inspired!
Registration/Microsoft Teams:
Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 213 675 859 033
Passcode: 59Y29ef7
Dial in by phone
+1 650-564-3271,,924020596# United States, Mountain View
Phone conference ID: 924 020 596#
For organizers: Meeting options | Reset dial-in PIN
Saturday February 22, 2025
Lives of Black Miners during the California Gold Rush
Time: 10 am
Location: Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, 310 Back St, Coloma, CA 95613
Description: Come join the California Natural Resources Agency for a guided tour of Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park highlighting the lives of Black miners during the California Gold Rush. The tour will highlight the Black community that lived in Coloma during and after the discovery of gold in California. California State Parks staff will lead participants through the town of Coloma and discuss the activities of early miners, their influence on the local community and some of their contributions. The leisurely paced tour will be 1.5-mile loop through the historic gold mining town of Coloma on relatively flat terrain. Wear comfortable shoes and bring some drinking water for the hike which will end around noon.
Cost: Free, but after the hike there is an opportunity to try your hand at gold panning ($10/fee) and to visit the local community market that will be open from 1-4pm on Saturday.
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Black Leaders Charting the Path in Conservation
Time: 12PM – 1PM
Description: Join us for a special Black History Month Secretary Speaker Series webinar celebrating the groundbreaking achievements of Black leaders in the environmental and conservation fields. These trailblazers have navigated challenges, broken barriers and redefined what it means to lead in protecting our communities and the environment. Learn about the unique experiences that shaped their paths, the obstacles they overcame and the lessons they carry forward as they champion equity, sustainability and community empowerment. Whether you are passionate about conservation or simply looking to be inspired by stories of perseverance and leadership, this is an opportunity to hear directly from those who have transformed the field. Don’t miss this compelling discussion that honors the resilience and vision of Black leaders.
Registration/Zoom:https://ca-water-gov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_EHfL52BiTyadKkCaUz2Tug
About Black History Month
Welcome to Black History Month – a time dedicated to uplifting, learning, and appreciating Black heritage and culture. The colors Black, red, green and yellow are often associated with Black History Month and each color has its own distinct meaning and significance. There is a rich history to the colors and many alternative perspectives on their significance worth exploring, but they are commonly thought to represent:
Red - bloodshed and sacrifice in the struggle against racism, slavery, and colonialism
Green - nature, the rich greenery of Africa and our natural resources
Yellow - justice, optimism, equality
Black – resilience, a shared identity, and the colors of Black skin
Altogether the colors are a source of pride and symbol of unity!
