African American History and Culture

Rooted in the unique social history of America, the OBCC African American History/Cultural Ministry is grounded in Christ, highlights cultural connections, and explores historical resources. We celebrate the achievements of Africans and African Americans across many disciplines including religion, music, history, art, architecture, culture, literature, mathematics, the sciences, media, geography, and many other fields. Together we fellowship, we study, and we learn. Visit the Black History Month page for a description of 2025 events.

In 2012, we launched our month-long Black History Month Program. This has become a signature annual series drawing national and international speakers and historians from institutions such as Howard University, University of Maryland College Park, UMBC, the Smithsonian and others. Renowned presenters have included Dr. Greg Carr, Dr. Dana Williams, Dr. Cheryl LaRoche, Filmmaker Haile Gerima, Cinematographer Bradford Young, Professor/Producer Sonja Williams, Humanities Scholar Lenneal Henderson, Cultural Historian Anthony Browder, Dr. Derek Musgrove, Historian John Franklin, Social Justice Advocate Justin Hanson, Political Scholar Clarence Lusane, Buffalo Soldier Joseph Hairston, Law School Dean Danielle Holley-Walker, and others.

"Pray that God will give me the right words to say. Then I will speak boldly when I reveal the mystery of the Good News."

Ephesians 6:19 GWT