The City of Kissimmee kicked off Black History Month with a powerful and inspiring Black History Month Reception on Tuesday at the Rain Garden of Kissimmee City Hall. The evening brought together city officials, local artists, performers, and community members to honor the rich cultural heritage and contributions of African Americans in Kissimmee and beyond.

The event featured a compelling art exhibition by Osceola Arts, live musical performances, and an evening of recognition and celebration. WFTV Reporter Daryl Matthews emceed the event, guiding attendees through an evening filled with art, music, and cultural expression.

Throughout the evening, several talented artists and performers were recognized for their contributions to the community:

🎨 Black History Month Exhibition Artists:

• Rick Arnold – Celebrating Black figures and loved ones as heroes, inspired by Saturday morning cartoons.
• Renee Elizabeth – Blending influences from the Caribbean, the Carolinas, and Florida into vibrant reflections of home.
• Hannah Forbes – Showcasing the beauty and strength of Black women through graphic design portraits.
• Robert Rell – Capturing the vibrancy of life with bold colors, movement, and graffiti-inspired art.
• Ida Robles – Honoring her Afro-Latina heritage and influential Black figures in American history.

The evening’s performances added to the celebratory atmosphere, with Endless Praise Liturgical Dancers, featuring Sareena Greene and Destini Bridgewater, delivering a moving dance performance. Gabriella Traverso, a student from the Osceola County School for the Arts, captivated the audience with her stunning vocal performance. Representatives from Osceola Arts, Marilyn Cortes-Lovato and Diana Colon, emphasized the profound influence of the arts in shaping and enriching the local community. Meanwhile, Dr. David Walker and Tiffany Jeffers of the Black Empowerment Community Council attended in support of the event’s mission to honor and uplift Black culture, with Jeffers delivering a stirring rendition of the National Anthem to set the tone for the evening’s celebration.

As part of the program, artists and performers received certificates of appreciation for their work in showcasing Black culture and heritage. The event concluded with refreshments and an opportunity for attendees to view the inspiring artwork displayed throughout City Hall.

At 6:00 p.m., the City Commission meeting featured the official Black History Month proclamation, reinforcing Kissimmee’s commitment to honoring and celebrating the achievements of African Americans and the African Diaspora.

Exhibit Open Through February 28

The Black History Month Art Exhibition will remain open to the public at Kissimmee City Hall through February 28, 2025, during regular operating hours. This collection of works provides a powerful tribute to the influence of Black artists on American culture.

Join the celebration and explore the incredible artistry on display!