WETA Celebrates Black History Month

Tuesday, January 28 at 9 pm on WEAT PBS and WETA Metro

Great Migrations: A People on the Move explores the transformative impact of Black migration on American culture and society. From the waves of Black Americans to the North—and back South—over the last century to the growing number of immigrants from Africa and the Caribbean today, the film shows how movement is a defining feature of the Black experience.

Saturday, February 1 at 8 pm on WETA PBS

A comprehensive review of actor Denzel Washington's remarkable career and his indelible impact on the film industry.

Saturday, February 1 at 9:30 pm on WETA Metro

Follow music icon Roberta Flack from a piano lounge through her rise to stardom. From “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” to “Killing Me Softly,” Flack’s virtuosity was inseparable from her commitment to civil rights. Detailing her story in her own words, the film features exclusive access to Flack’s archives and interviews with Rev. Jesse Jackson, Peabo Bryson and more.

Premieres Tuesdays on WETA PBS and WETA Metro

Renowned scholar Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. returns for a new season of Finding Your Roots. Using genealogical detective work and cutting-edge DNA analysis, Gates guides twenty compelling guests deep into their family trees, revealing surprising stories that transcend borders, illuminating an American root system fortified by its diversity.

Monday, February 10 at 8:30 pm on WETA PBS and WETA Metro

Tour the National Museum of African American History & Culture’s new exhibit, “In Slavery’s Wake”, which focuses on the worldwide impact of European slavery and colonialism. Next, enjoy host Felicia Curry’s visit to the home of mezzo-soprano opera superstar Denyce Graves. Finally, meet Silver Spring pianist Brian Ganz, who is on a quest to perform every single work composed by Frederick Chopin.

repeats on 2/17

Saturday, February 8 at 8 pm on WETA PBS

The Black Fire Documentary uncovers Washington, DC’s music and cultural heritage by highlighting the music, message, and art of the people behind Black Fire Records — a Black-owned independent jazz record label started in Chocolate City, aka the nation’s capital in the 1970s.

Thursday, February 13 at 9:30 pm on WETA Metro 

Making Black America: Through the Grapevine is a four-part series hosted by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., that chronicles the vast social networks and organizations created by and for Black people—beyond the reach of the “White gaze.” Professor Gates sits with noted scholars, politicians, cultural leaders, and old friends to discuss this world behind the color line and what it looks like today.

Saturday, February 15 at 8 pm on WETA PBS and WETA Metro

Black Panthers co-founder Huey Newton is accused of murdering a white policeman after a car stop in 1967 Oakland. A landmark trial ensues and Newton's defense team calls out racism in the judicial system. With a death penalty looming, a shocking verdict is delivered that still reverberates today.

Saturday, February 15 at 10 pm on WETA Metro

The accidental discovery of the significant history of a modest dwelling on a traditionally African American street in Hagerstown, Maryland is used to trace the roots of middle America’s racial, economic and social interactions. Through the lens of this house, the rise and fall of the African American community in small rust belt towns and cities across America is told.

Sunday, February 16 at 4 pm on WETA PBS

Major Taylor: Champion of the Race retraces the life and legacy of an American civil rights pioneer who set more than 20 world records in speed cycling during the heart of Jim Crow America. Major Taylor captured the world cycling championship, the American cycling crown, and had set dozens of world speed cycling records – all while having to endure withering racial pressures.

Friday, February 21 at 9 pm on WETA PBS and WETA Metro

Learn about jazz virtuoso and screen superstar Hazel Scott, the first Black American to have their own television show. An early civil rights pioneer, she faced down the Red Scare at the risk of losing her career and was a champion for equality. The film features interviews with Mickey Guyton, Tracie Thoms, Amanda Seales, and Sheryl Lee Ralph as the voice of Hazel Scott.

Monday, February 24 at 9:30 pm on WETA PBS and WETA Metro 

How do you take a picture and tell a whole story? A Chocolate Lens chronicles Steven Cummings’s photographic journey through a disappearing Black Washington. His approach was simple: use the camera lens to find the power amidst the storm. His images are a love letter to Black people across America.

Monday, February 24 at 10 pm on WETA PBS and WETA Metro

After multiple heart surgeries, a 70-year-old man transforms his life to become an avid cyclist. When he and his son embark on a long-distance ride from St. Louis to Chicago, they push each other in their quests to reimagine Black health.

Tuesday, February 25 at 9 pm on WETA PBS and WETA Metro

Meet Walter White, the NAACP’s longtime leader and one of the most influential but least known figures in civil rights history. Under his leadership, the NAACP paved the way for Black power at the ballot box and scored important legal victories.