The City of Trenton is hosting an online series entitled “Trenton Black History Month: Our History, Our Stories,” a virtual lecture series celebrating the lives and accomplishments of Black Trentonians across multiple generations, like former New York City Mayor David Dinkins, American football linebacker Gary Stills, and Reverend Alice Parker.

The series will be broadcast in hour-long segments on the City’s Facebook page and Peterson’s Breaking News of Trenton. It will be hosted by former Councilwoman At-Large Cordelia M. Staton, who is the first woman of color to be elected to that position.

The series kicks off today, February 5, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. with a look back at notable Trenton-based first responders and government officials, which will be presented by Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, Peterson’s Breaking News Correspondent, Crystal Feliciano, and Aide to the Mayor Gary B. Lawery III.

Next is a presentation about Locust Hill Cemetery with Algernon Ward Jr. on Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2021. Additional installments about Black Trentonian contributions to sports, community activism, and the arts will air each following Friday throughout February. Each presentation will also feature music and poetry performances by Trenton-area residents.

“Trenton’s history is built on the foundation of numerous Black pioneers who have made countless contributions to government, public safety, community activism, and the arts, many of whom are still serving their community to this very day,” said Mayor W. Reed Gusciora. “While COVID-19 makes it hard for us to celebrate these achievements in person, we hope our residents can enjoy this enriching program with loved ones at home.”

“Every year, I look forward to the City’s recognition of Black History Month and the many accomplishments of our local residents,” said Ms. Staton. “I believe it is imperative that we as a community, and for the benefit of our youth, acknowledge and pay homage to our own trailblazers. Trenton is home for so many notable individuals and it is my honor to host this year’s program as we share our history with our stories.”

To take part in the Our History, Our Stories Black History Month celebration, visit The City of Trenton’s Facebook page or Peterson’s Breaking News of Trenton’s Facebook page.