BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2027
NPHC Lip Sync Showdown:
Battle of the Greeks
Get ready for an evening of energy, entertainment, and Greek pride at the NPHC Lip Sync Showdown: Battle of the Greeks!
Join the Bessie Smith Cultural Center as members of Chattanooga's National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) organizations take the stage to compete in an exciting lip sync battle. Each fraternity and sorority will showcase its creativity, choreography, and school spirit by performing to a song of its choice, all in hopes of earning bragging rights as this year's Lip Sync Showdown Champion.
From iconic hits to crowd favorites, expect unforgettable performances, friendly competition, and plenty of audience participation as we celebrate the rich traditions, service, and cultural impact of the Divine Nine.
Whether you're cheering on your organization or simply looking for a fun night of entertainment, this is an event you won't want to miss!
When: February 4, 2027 - 6:00PM
Where: Bessie Smith Cultural Center
When: February 6, 2026 - 10:00AM - 4:00PM
Where: Bessie Smith Cultural Center
Community Day: Featuring Art Contest Exhibit Opening and Free Museum Admission
Behind every photograph is a story waiting to be told. For generations, Black journalists have documented the people, places, and moments that shaped history, often telling stories that were overlooked or ignored by mainstream media. Through newspapers, radio, television, and photography, they preserved the voices of communities, celebrated achievements, exposed injustice, and ensured that history would not be forgotten.
Inspired by this legacy, the Bessie Smith Cultural Center invites high school and college students to participate in the Portraits of Purpose: A Visual Storytelling Competition.
Your challenge is to identify someone in your community whose story deserves to be heard. This individual does not have to be famous or hold a public office. Instead, seek out the everyday people who make a meaningful impact through their work, service, leadership, creativity, resilience, or commitment to others.
Your submission should tell their story through the power of photography and journalism.
When: February 11, 2026 - 6:00PM
Where: Bessie Smith Cultural Center
Reel Conversations: Till Movie Night
Join the Bessie Smith Cultural Center for a special screening of Till, followed by a guided community discussion. The film tells the true story of Mamie Till-Mobley and her fight for justice after the 1955 murder of her 14-year-old son, Emmett Till, in Mississippi.
Through Mamie’s courage and determination, Till explores grief, family, racism, justice, and the power of turning personal tragedy into a movement for change. Her decision to make the world confront what happened to her son became a defining moment in the Civil Rights Movement and helped bring national attention to racial violence in America.
Following the screening, guests are invited to stay for a guided conversation reflecting on the film’s historical significance, its connection to the broader Civil Rights Movement, and the ways Emmett Till’s story continues to shape conversations about justice and equality today.
Recommended for ages 13 and older. Viewer discretion is advised due to mature themes and depictions of racial violence.
When: February 18, 2027 - 6:00PM
Where: Bessie Smith Cultural Center
Voices That Shaped the Story: A Night of Black Journalism
Discover the powerful legacy of Black journalism and the voices that informed, inspired, and united communities when many stories went untold.
Join the Bessie Smith Cultural Center for Voices That Shaped the Story, an evening exploring the history and impact of Black newspapers, radio, and media in preserving African American history and advocating for social change. The program will feature a special temporary exhibit highlighting the evolution of Black radio in Chattanooga, with a spotlight on broadcasting pioneer Ted Bryant, whose influential career helped shape local radio and amplify Black voices across the region.
Guests will explore how Black journalists and broadcasters documented history, celebrated culture, and provided trusted information during some of the nation's most pivotal moments. Through artifacts, photographs, audio recordings, and engaging discussion, attendees will gain a deeper appreciation for the media professionals who ensured that Black stories were heard and preserved.
Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy of Black journalism and the voices that continue to shape our communities today.