— HISTORY SERIES —
The Legacy of African Americans in Dayton
Thursday, October 9, 2025
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Presented by Children’s Historical Publishing
ADVANCE TICKETS REQUIRED
Admission: $15 per person
Optional boxed dinners: $15
Wine, beer & soda available at the bar
Cover art by James Pate for “The History of Hope in the Making: The Legacy of African Americans in Dayton”
Connect with Dayton’s Untold Stories
Enjoy an evening of storytelling, connection, and impact as we highlight the Black community members who have shaped the Miami Valley for generations.
This program, presented by Children’s Historical Publishing, shines a light on local African American leaders whose stories are often overlooked. Celebrating their contributions enriches community memory and identity while honoring the resilience that has shaped Dayton’s history.
Our featured speakers, Kweku Larry Crowe and Olabisi Olakolade, co-authors of The History of Hope in the Making: The Legacy of African Americans in Dayton, will share their motivations, research, and insights beyond the published pages. Together, they have preserved the voices and legacies of Dayton’s African American community for future generations.
ABOUT THE SPEAKERS
Kweku Larry Crowe
A Dayton native and Wright State University history graduate, Kweku Larry Crowe is an oral historian, fine artist, and longtime community activist. He has conducted more than 2,000 African American oral histories for The HistoryMakers project and is affiliated with the Association for the Study of Classical African Civilizations.
Olabisi Olakolade
Also referred to as Olabisi Crowe, Olabisi Olakolade is a respected elder in the Dayton Africana community. As a dedicated educator and advocate for preserving African American heritage and culture, she has been deeply involved with the Dayton Africana Elders Council, speaking publicly on school board issues and community cultural events. Her leadership has helped shape local commemorations and celebrations of African heritage, storytelling, and public memory.
Special Guest — The Honorable Judge Walter Herbert Rice
We are honored to welcome Judge Walter Herbert Rice to deliver the opening remarks. A jurist, humanitarian, and community leader, Judge Rice has served on the federal bench since 1980, including as Chief Judge of the United States District Court. Widely regarded as an engaging public speaker, he also dedicates his time to numerous community boards and initiatives.
This event is presented in partnership with Children’s Historical Publishing (CHPS). Since 2001, CHPS has published Learning-Activity Books that integrate history, art, science, and technology to enrich the education of elementary school students on underserved topics. The books serve to educate, entertain, and inspire children, especially minority and at-risk youth.
Yes, men are welcome at The Dayton Woman’s Club! Although our name suggests otherwise, we are open to the general public.
Our venue is fully accessible, with a ramp entrance and accommodations to welcome guests of all abilities.
Your ticket purchase supports our mission of empowering women and strengthening our local community with historic preservation, public engagement, cultural activities, and educational programs.