Kankakee Public Library welcomes Illinois Road Scholar Connie Martin, who will present a program on “Hidden Messages in Negro Spirituals on the Underground Railroad” on Thursday, February 1, at 6 p.m. Ms. Martin shares the connections of Negro Spirituals with meanings and interpretations of songs used in regions of the South, which signaled multiple signs and tips that aided enslaved fugitives to find freedom.
Martin earned a BA from Illinois State University and an MA from Aurora University, with a thesis in Integrating African American History Lessons in Educational Curriculums. Growing up, attending countless choir rehearsals, church services, and research, helped her learn about the history and meanings of Negro Spirituals.
This free program will be held at the Kankakee Public Library, 201 E. Merchant Street in downtown Kankakee. Questions may be directed to 815-939-4564.