Created Equal: The Rhythm and Resilience of Black Music

Leon County Government and The Village Square will host the 10th Annual Created Equal event on Wednesday, April 9, 2025. The program will explore the rich history of Black music, showing how it serves as a living chronicle of the Black experience.

Music has always been an integral part of Black history, serving as both a reflection of the challenges faced by Black communities and as a celebration of their resilience and triumphs. From the spirituals sung during slavery to today’s hip-hop anthems, Black music has evolved alongside the Black experience, providing a voice for change and a foundation for cultural expression.

How has music served as a powerful tool for storytelling, resistance, and cultural identity throughout history, and in what ways does it continue to shape and reflect the Black experience today?

In an effort to recognize the significance and evolution of Black music, this year's Created Equal program will explore how music in Black culture has shaped the Black experience throughout history. Through a discussion-based panel, attendees will dive into the genres, movements, and pivotal moments that highlight the evolution of Black music and its cultural impact. By examining both the musical and historical timelines, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how music has been a source of inspiration, solidarity, and empowerment for Black communities across generations.

Join the discussion at Created Equal on Wednesday, April 9, at The Moon, 1105 E Lafayette St. Pizza, salad, and drinks will be provided at 5:30 p.m. The panel discussion will begin at 6 p.m., followed by table conversations among attendees. Registration is free and everyone is invited to attend.

Created Equal’s 2025 program will build on the success of 2024’s “Created Equal: A Bicentennial Tribute to Black and Brown History.” The program examined the stories of Black and Brown people, their achievements, and contributions to Leon County’s history.

Learn more about the program here.

Host or Publisher The Village Square