The Boston area has a range of events celebrating Black history in the arts, activism, labor movement and sports. Here are the biggest events to check out. Month-long happenings Muqeedah Publishing has artwork celebrating Black History Month on display at Boston City Hall (second floor) between now and Feb.

Feb. 27 — In 1869, John Willis Menard rose from his seat in the chamber of the U.S. Congress to defend his status as the first African American elected to the institution, thus becoming the first Black to address Congress. Alas, he was denied the seat and returned to Florida where he became a school superintendent.

As cultural celebration and education remains as essential as ever, Orlando is in the midst of a Black History Month full of events, shows and activities we don't want to miss. Here's a guide to Orlando-area things to do celebrating Black heritage this February.