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City Cast Austin

Nikki DaVaughn

February marks 100 years of Black History Month in the U.S. In Austin, the largest Black History Month event takes place in the most gentrified part of the city. I wanted to find out what that looks like.

Solar Saturday is the George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center’s annual Black History Month kick-off block party. The block party was on Feb. 7 and had a little bit of everything. The day started with a Black makers market, and other programming included everything from food panels to a 

Black Queer Renaissance Kiki Ball & Variety Show

. They debuted a new gallery exhibit by Steven Bernard Jones called “

” that I’ll be raving about for weeks. The exhibit represents Jone’s pursuit of creative bliss, reconstructing borders and routes through “big doodles.”

Local officials were also out in full force. Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, State Rep. Sheryl Cole, Congressman Lloyd Doggett, and Travis County Commissioner Jeff Travillion were all in attendance. But for me, the stars were the Ninth Calvary Buffalo Soldiers! 

 were U.S. Army regiments made up exclusively of Black American soldiers.

Seeing Buffalo Soldiers immediately takes me back to my childhood. They led every Juneteenth parade I attended as a kid in East Austin, and I always made sure to get a picture with them at the post-parade celebration at Rosewood Park. I’m sure they’re a core memory for so many other Black kids in the city, too. I couldn’t resist asking to take a photo.

The East Side has seen absolutely crazy growth over the last few years. 

 has not just changed the landscape, it’s changed the culture. So, I was curious to see who would be at the block party. In years past, to see more than a few non-Black people at this type of event who weren’t politicians would be rare. But given the 

, I wasn’t surprised to see the diverse, excited crowd.

The Black Makers Market was the epicenter of activity. There was music, kids running around, and Caribbean food wafting from a nearby food truck. The vendors did not disappoint —candles, Eritrean hot sauce, customized perfume — you name it, they had it. But my favorite was 

. They sold beautiful African clothing, accessories, and textiles. I’m obsessed. The owner is Nigerian-born Unyime Udosen, who has lived in Austin for 30 years. I asked Unyime why she chose to sell at the event.

“I want to share my culture with everyone, that’s why I’m here. Black history is not just once a month, it’s year around,” she said.

Looking at the diversity of people walking around us I asked her if her stuff was for everybody. Without missing a beat, Unyime repeated, “

One hundred years of Black History Month feels like such a short time. Our history in Austin started way before 1926. Luckily, the 

 is creating spaces where we can learn about and celebrate that history together while still being a hub for Austin’s Black community.

This year’s block party was definitely more diverse than I’ve seen, but it still felt very Black-centered. The programming has been pivotal in creating a welcoming, open, and diverse space for everyone in the community. I recognize the necessity of it, but I honestly still struggle with accepting the ever-changing face of my beloved East Side.

I’d be lying if I told you I wasn’t wanting to ask one of the white people why they decided to come to the block party, mostly because I’m nosey, but also because I want to help create that open space. I want to get to know the people who are changing my community.

I got that chance to do that with Kacie C. I asked why it was important for her to bring her four kids to a Black History celebration.

“I want this to be a regular part of their lives. We love community events, and we love community events that celebrate diversity and triumphs in different cultures. It’s an important part of Austin history. And I want celebrating Black people to be really regular for them,” she said.

Black History Month is celebrating its 100th year in 2026.

Austin Celebrates 100 Years of Black History Month

Explainers

What Austinites have been wondering. We break down why things in Austin are they way they are and how they work.

Austin, Explained

🎒 Austin Independent School District will kick off the 2025-26 school year on Tuesday, and a few things will likely look different, so we’ve put together some handy reminders to help you feel prepared!

📵 Brush Up on New Statewide Classroom Rules.

The Texas legislature recently passed new laws that prohibit 

 be hung in every classroom. In compliance with the cell phone law, 

 students to keep their personal devices — including cell phones, tablets, gaming devices, smart watches, Bluetooth earbuds, fitness trackers with messaging, personal laptops, two-way radios, and pagers — turned off and put away from bell to bell.

While classrooms are supposed to have posters of the Ten Commandments on the walls by Sept. 1, implementation may be delayed or paused by 

✏️ Know Which Schools Are On Turnaround Plans.

Three middle schools — Burnet, Dobie, and Webb — will be on 

 to help improve student test scores. The plans led to significant staff changes with the schools bringing in new teachers with a history of student academic growth. Daily math and reading coursework is also a focus of the plans. If the schools can’t improve scores, the district eventually could face closures or a state-controlled school board.

🚘 Don’t Forget About School Speed Limits.

It happens every fall. You’re driving along and wham, you’re in a school speed zone. “Oh right, these are back,” you say to yourself with a sigh. Watch for 20 mph speed limits near campuses in the mornings and afternoons during drop-offs and pick-ups, and 

. And remember, the limits are there to keep kids safe!

Here's some handy reminders to help you feel prepared for the upcoming school year.

education

Austin Celebrates 100 Years of Black History Month

A Back-to-School Guide

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Austin Celebrates 100 Years of Black History Month

A Back-to-School Guide