The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Mystic & Noank Library, Kevin Booker Jr., and Inonda C. Peterson , proudly presents the Fifth Annual Celebration of Black History Month Program, taking place on February 28, 2026.
This community event honors the achievements, culture, and enduring contributions of Black leaders, artists, educators, and changemakers. Guests can expect inspiring speakers, meaningful storytelling, and programming designed to educate, uplift, and bring our community together.
Join us in Mystic, CT as we celebrate history, resilience, and the voices shaping our future.
In our fifth year, we continue to grow the program. Please Join Us at 10am at the Anchor (Corner of Route 1 and Holmes Street
where the celebration kicks off with a performance of the Black National Anthem (Lift Every Voice and Song). That will be followed by a march up to Union Baptist Church for a morning program themed upon Expressions of Freedom. . Following the program, we invite everyone to have lunch with us at the Church. The program at Union Baptist Church will be hosted by Inonda C. Peterson and Deion Kelly.
Speakers and Event Performers
Leonard Epps
Leonard is a life-time member of the Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated; is the founder of Young Men's Leadership Programs; and has participated in Harvard University's National Institute for Urban School Leaders and in the Education Policy Fellowship Program. He was also a Fulbright-Hays Scholar in Ghana in West Africa. Leonard has been recognized for his many contributions to the community and was named an outstanding role model and leader by local groups such as the Artist Collective and Committed Adult to Children in Hartford. In 2016, the University of Hartford's Alumni Association honored him with the Distinguished Alumni Award for his exceptional impact on his profession and the community.
Marvin Espy
Marvin Espy, a prominent figure in the art world from Cincinnati OH, has achieved significant recognition throughout his career.
In 2024, Espy was inducted into the Princeton High School Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the art world and his legacy as a visionary artist. His sophisticated cityscapes and vibrant abstracts have garnered attention in esteemed venues across Charlotte, North Carolina, and have been featured in prominent publications throughout Connecticut and as far as San Antonio, Texas. This national reach highlights the widespread appreciation for Espy’s work and its impact beyond regional boundaries.
Rehoboth Gospel Choir
Rehoboth Church Choir
The Rehoboth Church Choir is a community of singers who love God and love gospel music. After the
pandemic, members were apprehensive about returning. During the pandemic the church grew, taking in new members. Many
of those new members have helped to shape what they have now as a choir. This choir sings different genres of Gospel Music from traditional to contemporary. Their number one mission is to give glory to God through song and to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. Under the direction of Stephen Wilson, who serves as the Music & Arts Director, the choir also aspires to bring hope and healing to others. This choir serves under the leadership of the Senior Pastor of Rehoboth Church of God, Bishop Jonathan Ramsey Jr.
More Than Words
More Than Words is a group of student leaders from Fitch High School, Ledyard High School, the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, and the New London High School Multi-Magnet Campus. The mission of More Than Words is to promote respect for diversity, facilitate communication, and build trust among members of our community. Meetings are held throughout the school year with the goal of developing a group able to respond to crises, working proactively to prevent problems, and celebrating diversity. Each year the group presents workshops at local schools to promote justice and respect for others.
Thanks to our Event Sponsors
