The 2026 Black History Live! statewide tour will feature the living-history portrayal by scholar/actor Becky Stone of Mary Fields or scholar/actor Marvin Jefferson as York. The portrayals will be performed as a first-person dramatization. A monologue typically runs 40 minutes, followed by 20 minutes of Q&A, first in character and then out of character as the scholar/performer. All shows are FREE.
Born into slavery in Virginia and owned by William Clark, York traveled thousands of miles across uncharted territory on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, contributing as a skilled hunter, caregiver, and diplomat with Native nations.
Mary Fields was the first African American woman to be a star route carrier in this country. She was born into slavery, but after emancipation, life led her to Cascade, Montana.
She was a part of the settling of the frontier, and her story lends a first hand account of African Americans who lived in the Wild West and made significant contributions. Her story brings in the history of Black settlers, male and female, Black cowboys, Black entrepreneurs, and more.
Black History Live! 2026 Performance Schedule
Thursday, February 5: Mary Fields — 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Windsor Gardens, 595 S. Clinton St., Denver.
Saturday, February 21: York — 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Aurora Public Library Central Branch, 14949 E. Alameda Pkwy., Aurora.
Saturday, February 21: York — 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker.
Sunday, February 22: York — 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Columbine Library, 7706 W. Bowles Ave., Littleton
Each February, Colorado Humanities’ Black History Live program honors the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of pivotal unsung heroes, visionaries, and trailblazers who have shaped the intricate tapestry of Black heritage.
You can view the full schedule here or find info on how to request a performance at your venue.
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