Black History Month Coloring Contest
At The Kokomo Post, we are proud to honor Black History Month by shining a spotlight on leaders and artists in the Black community in Kokomo. One individual who stands out as a local leader is JC Barnett III, a passionate Kokomo native deeply invested in art, history and community involvement. We are thrilled to team up with Barnett on another project to combine his talent and education to create a meaningful illustration commemorating Black History Month.
Barnett told us his illustration features a portrait of the great African American hero Frederick Douglass. Douglass, an abolitionist, orator, writer, publisher, civil rights leader and government official, dedicated his life to the cause of freedom. His wisdom and influence extended to advising presidents such as Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson during the Civil War. Douglass left a lasting legacy, inspiring numerous civil rights leaders of the 20th century with his courage, passion, intellect and literary skills.
The illustration also pays homage to the Douglass School in Kokomo, built in 1920 and named after the American hero. Initially a racially segregated school, it played a pivotal role in the community. Despite challenges and attempts at demolition, Douglass School persevered and is now owned by the nonprofit Embracing Hope, with Rev. Dr. William Smith leading restoration efforts to transform it into a museum and cultural center.
“History is near and dear to my heart. I have a particular interest in Douglass because of how it doesn’t just begin or end with Douglass,” said Barnett. “There is a greater story that connects so many different people and places.”
“It has been a hidden gem in our city for decades, I think it is a cool story of redemption, and the revitalization of Douglass could have an impact on generations to come in terms of education, giving youth black, white and of all colors hope and pride in who they are,” said Barnett. “A place that can truly help us to make a greater connection as a city, and society as a whole.”
Barnett said there are so many ways people can honor Black History Month.
“The Kokomo community and people who have the means to help embrace Black History Month should just be a willing participant,” he said. “Not always needing to lead, but just be present to help. A donation of time, facilities, and resources is a tremendous help.” He emphasized the importance of willing participation.
In celebration of Black History Month, we are proud to showcase and partner with three outstanding local Black-owned businesses this month.
Our first-place prize is provided by Yolonda's Place, 1195 E. Markland Ave., known for its impressive soul food menu. Named in memory of owner Osirus Arrington’s late mother, Yolonda's Place has swiftly earned a stellar reputation in the city by preserving Yolonda’s recipes and spirit. Yolonda’s Place will be providing a $75 gift card for the 1st place winner.
Our second-place prize comes from, Angelina Sims, a local realtor in the Kokomo area. Sims’ commitment to compassion and meticulous attention to her client's wants and needs has earned her the trust and respect of the community. Sims will be providing a $50 visa gift card for the 2nd place winner.
Our third-place prize is provided by HomeTeam Ice Cream, a local ice cream truck that has been loved by the community for several years. With a mission to bring smiles to the Kokomo community, HomeTeam Ice Cream has become a cherished business on wheels and will provide a $25 gift card to their truck for the third-place winner.
Here’s how you can enter:
Print the coloring page below
Turn it into your very own masterpiece
Snap a photo of your coloring page and email it to Bree@thekokomopost.com
Coloring contest submissions will be accepted from Feb. 1-14
The Kokomo Post team will pick our top 10 submissions, which will be entered into an online people’s choice contest that will run from Feb. 15-29
The first, second and third-place winners will be announced on March 1
Here’s what you could win:
First-place winner: $75 gift card to Yolonda’s Place
Second-place winner: $50 Visa gift card from realtor Angelina Sims with About Your Home Realty
Third-place winner: $25 gift card from HomeTeam Ice Cream
