WARREN, Ohio - Organizers of "A Century of Black History Commemorations" held a collection of events in Warren on Saturday to expand cultural understandings and "invite communities to reflect on history."

This was the start of the two-day Warren event, which brought together an African vendor market, soul food buffet along with panel discussions and trivia.

 "This year is special because we have a lot of different things going on across the country," Trumbull County NAACP President Annette McCoy said. "We have people out marching, pushing for rights so we think that this year is important."

The primary goal is to offer education on Black history, culture, identity along with the rituals that organizers say have helped "shape the national understanding of Black life." McCoy added that she believes it is important to remember these key educational pieces throughout the year, and share Black history with communities 365 days a year.

"A Century of Black History Commemorations" will also be happening Sunday March 8 from 12 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the STEAM Academy 261 Elm Rd. ,Warren, Ohio.