Free Black History Month events at UTC

Black History Month begins today, and there are a wealth of films, concerts, panel discussions and other events all over town, including more than at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in observance. Here’s is a quick rundown on some that are free.

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Ed Johnson Project Documentary Screening and Panel Discussion: 3:155 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 8, at the UTC Library, Southern Writers Room

In 1906, after the U. S. Supreme Court halted the execution of Ed Johnson for a rape he didn’t commit, he was lynched by a mob on the Walnut Street Bridge. The documentary explores his death and the way the media presents black men. www. edjohnsonproject.com.

› “Martin Luther King Jr.: A Personal Portrait”: 6-8 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 8, at the UTC University Center Auditorium

Cinematographer George Silano screens the interview he filmed in King’s home. Made in 1965, it wasn’t shown until 2013 after Silano tracked it to the University of Georgia.

› Injustice in the Prison Industrial Complex: 5-6:30 p. m., Friday, Feb. 9, at Derthick Hall, Room 101

Ramona Brant was sentenced to life in prison after the father of her children was arrested for drugs. She was a nonviolent, first-time offend- er and was assured by law enforcement and the judge that she would not go to jail if she signed a plea agreement. She did and s erved 2 1 years until President Barack Obama granted her clemency.

› “Paris is Burning”: 8-10 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 15 at the UTC University Center, Multicultural Center

The documentary examines Harlem’s drag- queen balls of the 1980s, a highly competitive, elaborately staged world. The 1990 film won the Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize and Best Documentary from the Los Angeles, New York and

National Film Critics’ circles

› Etiquette for the Soul: 8: 30-10: 30 p. m., Wednesday, Feb. 21, at the UTC University Center, Tennessee Room

Discussions explore the history and origin of soul food and its relationship with the African-American community. Soul food will be served.

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Between the University and Me: A Panel Discussion on UTC’s Role

in Black History: 5-7 p. m., Tuesday, Feb. 27, at the UTC Library, Southern Writers Room

An interactive panel discussion and Q& A looks at UTC’s role in teaching and preserving black history, as well as supporting black students and culture on campus and in the community.

Shawn Ryan