CLEVELAND — Celebrate Black History Month with the Cavs this weekend at the 21st Annual Black Heritage Celebration.

What You Need To Know

  • The Cavs are holding the 21st Annual Black Heritage Celebration this weekend

  • Two games will feature special recognitions, performances and activities

  • The games are on Feb. 21 and and Feb. 23

“The celebration will include two theme night games at Rocket Arena dedicated to honoring Black history and recognizing the important impact that continues today in our community,” a team press release reads. “Both games will feature a variety of activities celebrating Black culture, empowerment and education.”

The first game is Friday, Feb. 21, against the New York Knicks. This theme game will have a focus on empowering Black women.

During halftime, 10 Black women “who have made Cleveland stronger through their dedication, leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence” will be recognized.

They include:

  • India Birdsong-Terry, RTA, General Manager and CEO
  • Shontel Brown, Congresswoman and U.S. Representative
  • Danita Harris, WKYC, Anchor
  • Camryn Justice, WEWS, Reporter
  • Ariane Kirkpatrick, AKA Team, CEO and Owner
  • Alberta Lee, Cleveland Cavaliers, Chief People and Culture Officer
  • Judge Michelle Earley, Cleveland Municipal Court, Judge
  • Susan Oguche, Cleveland Cavaliers, Chief Communications Officer
  • Dr. Michele Scott Taylor, College Now Greater Cleveland, CEO
  • Myesha Watkins, Cleveland Peacemakers Alliance, Executive Director

There will also be performances from 216Stix, the Warrensville Heights drumline, Cavaliers Dance Team and Scream Team. Norelle Simpson will perform the national anthem.

The Cleveland Commission on Black Women and Girls will also be recognized in the community corner the Phe’be Foundation as the Jif DIFF Maker of the Game.

The Phyllis Wheatley Association will receive the benefits from the 50/50 raffle.

There will also be varous interactive experiences.

The next game will be on Sunday, Feb. 23, against the Memphis Grizzlies, this time focusing on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Divine Nine Fraternities and Sororities.

This game will include Marcus Alan Ward playing the national anthem on guitar and a “special halftime step performance showcasing the legacy of Black Greek organizations.”

The Jif DIFF Maker of the Game this night will be the Hubbard House Underground Railroad Museum, and the 50/50 raffle proceeds will go to the Cleveland African American Cultural Garden.

There will also be interactive experiences for fans.

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