Black History Month: Black Americans and Resistance/Resilience

When: Sunday February 22, 2026 12:30PM
Where: via Zoom & In-Person at 269 4th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Must RSVP above to receive Zoom link.

Black Americans have long transformed resistance into resilience. This program examines the histories, stories, and strategies that have sustained Black communities in the ongoing pursuit of justice and liberation.

With music by DuPree & Barry Kournhauser.

About the Speaker

Lujira Cooper is an author, senior activist and member and Trustee of Bklyn Society for Ethical Culture. Lujira’s novel “Theft of Trust” was published in 2009. She is one of twelve seniors highlighted in the 2020 photo exhibit “Not a Second More” (https://youtu.be/q43kBuC_ups). Lujira is also featured in Air BnB’s documentary “Connecting 50 Years of Pride” (https://youtu.be/KTQpqTRR9Jc)

About the Musicians

Best known as one of the lead vocalists of Casselberry DuPrée, she brings a great depth of gospel, folk, and country music, which, coupled with a deep appreciation for the Gullah narrative, is a bridge to her African roots. DuPrée’s soaring contralto voice, powerful vibrato and melodious yodeling grip the listener with hope for humanity; her songs evoke the haunting quality of a longing for truth and an inquiry into the different shades of justice.

Barry Kornhauser was born in the Midwest of the Bronx and presently lives in Brooklyn. He is a composer, arranger, teacher and multi-instrumentalist (cello, guitar, bass guitar and mandola) in a wide variety of musical environments. He has performed on stages ranging from Merkin Hall and NJPAC to the Bronx Zoo and Hippo Playground. From Saint John the Divine and Trinity Church to Sing Sing Prison and Creedmoor. He has collaborated with DuPrée as an accompanist since the early 90s.