Los Angeles hosts 44th annual Black Doll Show celebrating African American heritage

The Los Angeles City Council convened on February 7, 2025, to discuss various community initiatives and celebrate the beginning of Black History Month. The meeting, led by Council President Marquise Harris Dawson, highlighted significant cultural events and programs aimed at fostering community engagement and celebrating diversity.

One of the key topics was the upcoming 44th Annual Black Doll Show, themed "In Need of Good Folk, Magic Folk Like Us." This exhibit, which honors black artists and doll makers, pays tribute to the oral traditions of black folklore and fairy tales. The show, running since 1980, is recognized as the longest-running annual exhibition in Los Angeles. The council emphasized the importance of representation in art, particularly for young black children, as it allows them to see themselves reflected in the dolls and stories presented.

The council also discussed the rescheduled Kingdom Day Parade, originally planned for Martin Luther King Jr. Day but postponed due to wildfires. The parade will now take place on Presidents' Day, February 17, 2025, and will celebrate Dr. King's legacy with the theme of "peace and unity." The event promises to feature marching bands, performances, and community participation, reinforcing the city's commitment to honoring civil rights history.

Additionally, the council highlighted a Valentine's Day fitness event for youth, organized by the City of Los Angeles Recreation and Parks Department and Girls Play LA. This event aims to promote physical activity among children aged 5 to 15 and will include various fun activities.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of ongoing recovery efforts from recent wildfires, directing residents to the city's website for resources related to reentry and support for fire victims. The council's discussions underscored a commitment to cultural celebration, community health, and recovery efforts, setting a positive tone for the month ahead.