Celebrate Black History Month: Join KLEK’s Empowering Mental Health Fair!

JONESBORO, Ark. – KLEK recently hosted an event at the E. Boone Watson Center to promote mental health and celebrate Black History Month.

Jonesboro has a rich African American history, and Allie Tabor expressed the importance of raising awareness about the museum dedicated to it. “Many people don’t realize this museum is here, showcasing the history of Jonesboro,” she said.

Roger McKinney, curator of the Jonesboro African American Culture Center Museum, highlighted the museum’s mission. “This history isn’t taught in Jonesboro Public Schools. We created the museum to fill that gap. It’s a space for African American children to learn about their own heritage,” he explained.

The museum features many exhibits, each with its own unique story. McKinney shared a fascinating piece of local history about the conversion of Interstate 555. During construction, workers discovered 33 unmarked graves, revealing a forgotten cemetery. “The Highway department didn’t know the cemetery existed. Since the graves had no headstones, they had no idea who was there. They carefully relocated the remains to a new cemetery,” he said.

This month, the museum is also focusing on mental health. On February 8, they hosted a mental health fair. “In the African American community, mental health has often been stigmatized. It’s time we change that. Addressing this is vital for our growth,” Tabor shared.

Recognizing the importance of history, Tabor said, “Black History is American History. It’s a significant part of this nation. We must acknowledge and learn from all aspects of our past.”