Thunder Bay Theatre kicks off diversity series with Black History Month panel

ALPENA, Mich. —Thunder Bay Theatre is starting back up with the first of many Let’s Talk discussions for 2020, and they’re kicking off with this month’s Black History Panel.

The Let’s Talk series launched last year under the direction of Adrian Alexander and Tabitha Camp who have since moved in other creative directions. The kick off event for this year will offer community members a chance to interact with panelists who represent people of color in the area. Thunder Bay Theatre’s Artistic Director, Lucas Moquin, says his organization and field of work naturally embody diversity. That’s why he’s excited to lead the series with this month’s topic.

“The biggest reason we wanted to continue doing the Let’s Talk diversity panel discussions is so that we can continue a dialogue about these different topics, specifically this month for Black History Month. It’s an important discussion to have even though we’ve had it before, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t keep having it and continue to do it in the future.”

Secretary of the Thunder Bay Theatre Board, Kingsli Kraft, has been hands–on in organizing this month’s panel and she’s looking forward to promoting community inclusion and acceptance through this, and other scheduled discussions throughout the year.

“Panels are kind of an effort to continue those conversations outside of the theatre and in a more casual space, safe space, judgment-free space where people can ask questions, people can share their experiences within the context of Alpena itself, and so we can kind of understand where we’re at so we can move forward in a more mindful and growth–centered way. ”

Women’s History Month, mental health awareness, and Pride Month panels are on the calendar of events for later this year. The Black History Month panel is next Tuesday, February 25. You can join the conversation at Thunder Bay Theatre. Doors will open for a reception in the lobby beginning at 6:30 and the talk will start at 7 p.m. in the auditorium.