Role of African-Americans in 1920s and ’30s culture topic of virtual program

TORRINGTON — The Torrington Historical Society will offer the second presentation in a series of virtual programs, sponsored by Connecticut Humanities. The program will be presented via Zoom. The program is free, but donations are accepted.

“We Must Help That Change to Come” will be presented by Hamish Lutris on Wednesday at 6:30 pm. This illustrated PowerPoint program will discuss the role of African Americans in 1920s and ’30s American culture.

In the 1920s and during the Depression, African-Americans found a significant and inspiring role in American entertainment and sports. Lutris will discuss how the heightened emphasis on the race of these athletes and artists made them more than simply famous in their respective fields — it brought hard-won respect to all African-Americans. This talk will center on a few events of the period, such as the Harlem Renaissance and the 1936 Olympics, to highlight the emergence of a powerful African-American culture during this time.

Lutris is an associate professor of history, political science, and geography at Capital Community College in Hartford. He has worked in some of America’s premier natural and historical sites, leading hiking and historical programs. He has lectured extensively in the United States, Europe, and Canada, presenting programs on wide-ranging historical topics, including Native American history, the Civil War, scientific history, social and cultural history, World War I, World War II, and the American West.

In order to view this program, attendees must first download and install Zoom. Registrants will be sent a link for the program. To register for “We Must Help That Change to Come,” visit the Society’s website: www.torringtonhistoricalsociety.org.