February is Black History Month and African American Heritage Month, a time to honor the legacy, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals and communities in the United States. This month also marks International Month of Black Women in the Arts, a special opportunity to celebrate the creativity, resilience, and impact of Black women shaping the cultural landscape through their artistry and leadership.

In honor of this occasion, the Levitt Foundation is proud to spotlight several Black women who are part of the Levitt network and are leveraging the power of free, live music to bring people together and invigorate community life. Each of these women are making waves in the arts ecosystem and creating spaces where people can thrive, heal, and connect. In addition to the leaders featured below, we’d like to give a special shoutout to other incredible Black women in our community who also play an instrumental role bringing their Levitt music series to life—including Janel Washington from Levitt AMP Baton Rouge, Caniya Johnson from Levitt VIBE Oakland, Lydia Chatmon from Levitt AMP Selma, Tneyah Thomas and Briann Gonzalez from Levitt AMP Waco, and all Black women working in the arts, both within the Levitt network and beyond.

 

Fatma Letifi of Levitt AMP Green Bay in front of a popular mural in Downtown Green Bay.

 

Fatma Letifi
Diverse Business Assistance Manager, On Broadway, Inc.
Levitt AMP Green Bay Music Series

What inspires you?  

“Seeing the joy on people’s faces, even amidst their struggles, reminds me why I do this. Music and art create moments of escape, connection, and celebration, allowing people to forget their worries and embrace happiness, even if just for a little while.” 

What are you most proud of about Levitt AMP Green Bay?  

“Levitt AMP Green Bay is more than just concerts, it’s a movement. It’s a space where people feel included, where friendships form, and where music breaks barriers and brings us all together, creating a sense of community that lasts beyond the performances.” 

 

Christi H. Walden speaks to the press at the Levitt AMP Springfield Music Series. 

 

Christi H. Walden 
Coordinating Chair 
Levitt AMP Springfield Music Series (Illinois) 

Why is it important to recognize Black women working in the arts?   

“It is important to acknowledge the contributions of Black women in all things. We have been bringing beauty, life, inspiration, strength, and passion to the world from the beginning of time. What are the arts without those things?”   

 

Tina Betz speaks on stage at Levitt AMP Wilmington.

 

Tina Betz 
President, Cityfest, Inc., Director of Cultural Affairs, City of Wilmington, Delaware 
Levitt AMP Wilmington Music Series 

What are you most proud of about Levitt AMP Wilmington? 

“As both a performing artist and a multi-disciplinary arts presenter, I understand firsthand the power of representation and opportunity across artistic genres. I’m proud of how Levitt AMP Wilmington has evolved into more than just a concert series. It’s a gathering place where music unites people in a natural and welcoming way.  

The fact that the AMP series is hosted at the Urban Artist Exchange Amphitheater in a historic African American neighborhood adds a special significance. The amphitheater was built to provide a platform for diverse artists to be seen and heard, a mission that aligns perfectly with Levitt’s goal of creating free, accessible live music experiences for all. There’s a unique power in seeing families, friends, and strangers vibe to the same rhythm, discovering new artists, and feeling a sense of belonging. When Black women artists take that stage, their artistry is seen and felt—a powerful reminder of the impact, inspiration, and creativity that Black women bring to the arts.” 

 

Thank you to such leaders as Fatma Letifi, Christi H. Walden, and Tina Betz for their dynamic leadership in strengthening the social fabric of their communities through creating access to free live music. Extending far beyond the stage, the contributions of Black women in the arts are immeasurable. Here’s to celebrating their significant impact this month and throughout the year!