Black History Month Flag Raising Ceremony Page 2 Cleveland City Hall February 7, 2026
For 56 years the City of Cleveland has celebrated Black History Month with a Flag Raising Celebration which was started by former Cleveland Mayor Carl B. Stokes.
The crowd sang a verse of Lift Every Voice and Sing led by Jachara Taylor.
Jachara Taylor
Then, Yvetta Eley taught the crowd the words to and led the singing/drumming to the West African song "Funga Alafia." The phrase "Funga Alafia" can be interpreted as a greeting, where "Funga" refers to a traditional dance and "Alafia" means peace or well-being. The song is often used in educational settings to introduce students to African music and cultural traditions, making it a popular tool for teaching about rhythm, call-and-response singing, and communal values. During the drumming and singing, three young ladies danced. Watch the video of both songs.
There were community groups and resources around the Rotunda such as the African American Cultural Garden.
Obie Shelton, Director of African American Cultural Garden
Obie Shelton gave an update on the Garden's progress and announced that they have all the funds needed for an April 2026 start to the final phase of construction. Watch.
Many community and organization leaders spoke. There was a tribute remembering the late Dr. Eugene Jordan and Khalid Samad who is struggling with health problems.
Sheroes of Cleveland were recognized and each was presented with a kente cloth. Watch.
Sheroes of Cleveland
Yvetta Eley and the drummers performed This Little Light of Mine.
At the end, a large Unity Circle was formed. Watch
Want to learn about ethnic and cultural events in Cleveland such as this? Sign up for the free eNews and every Tuesday evening you will receive a free e-mail listing the next week's events. It's easy and free.
