Long Beach city officials kicked off Black History Month at City Hall, Tuesday afternoon, with the unveiling of an exhibit highlighting national and local black leaders.

The celebration, which took place before the start of the city council meeting, included multiple performances and free food for attendees which, officials noted, made up the largest turnout to date.

This year, the event was organized by 9th District Councilman Rex Richardson as part of a hosting rotation between the council’s other black members, including current Vice Mayor and 6th District Councilman Dee Andrews and 8th District Councilman Al Austin.

The exhibit, titled “Remembering Our Roots,” includes two distinct video projects which will be on display at the City Hall lobby until Feb. 29.

The Long Beach Post partnered with Richardson’s office to create one of the video projects highlighting local black history and community leaders.