The Unity Fellowship, a group of churches on Whidbey Island, is inviting the community to its annual Black History Month event to celebrate and remember Black people who have made a difference.

The event will take place at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 25 at the House of Prayer, located at 620 West Erin Park Road in Oak Harbor.

Pastor Fannie Dean has been leading the event for decades, after it was passed on by the Oak Harbor Black Citizens Association.

Bishop Charles Boyles from the House of Prayer said the event is open to community members of all colors and backgrounds. It will feature prayer, singing, dancing and speakers who will talk about Black history and figures.

Pastor Effie Boyles from House of Prayer still remembers the years she would have to enter a building through the backdoor before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 put an end to racial segregation. Now, she said, many children don’t know about their history and the importance of Black History Month.

The Boyles said the event is an educational opportunity as many accomplishments by Black people tend to be forgotten or remain unknown. By learning about the Black ancestors who have paved the way for today’s generations, people can find inspiration and better themselves, Bishop Boyles said.