February is Black History Month — a time to celebrate Black culture and heritage, acknowledge the continuing struggle for racial justice and recognize the many ways in which Black Americans have shaped our nation.

Several events are planned in Birmingham to commemorate Black History Month in 2023. Here’s a starter list.

“BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF KWAME BRATHWAITE”

What: Studio portraits and fashion photos from the late 1950s and ‘60s, taken by an American photographer who chronicled Black culture and popularized the idea that “Black Is Beautiful.”

When: Feb. 7-March 25. Gallery hours noon-5 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays. An opening reception is planned for Feb. 9, 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Guitarist Eric Essix will perform a concert of songs inspired by the civil rights era.