Celebrate Black History Month on Arizona PBS

To honor Black History Month, and as part of its commitment to celebrating the diversity of America year-round, Arizona PBS celebrates the contributions of African Americans through these programs during the month of February.

Friday, Feb. 2

Lorraine Hansberry: American Masters New – 8 p.m.
Explore the life and work of the “A Raisin in the Sun” playwright and activist who played a significant role in the civil rights movement. LaTanya Richardson Jackson narrates. Anika Noni Rose is the voice of Lorraine Hansberry. Watch online.

Friday, Feb. 9

Eddie Murphy: The Mark Twain Prize – 8 p.m.
Salute comedian/actor Eddie Murphy, the 2015 recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. From the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC, some of the biggest names in comedy salute the 18th recipient of the humor prize. Watch online.

Great Performances New – 9:30 p.m.
“Nas Live from the Kennedy Center: Classical Hip-Hop” – Witness the groundbreaking hip-hop artist perform a symphonic rendition of his seminal debut album “Illmatic” with the National Symphony Orchestra. Nas paints a densely textured lyrical portrait of life in a New York City public housing project. Watch online.

Friday, Feb. 16

Maya Angelou: American Masters – 8 p.m.
Journey through the prolific life of the “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” author and activist who inspired generations with lyrical modern African-American thought. Features new interviews with Oprah Winfrey, Common, the Clintons and others. Watch online.

Monday, Feb. 19

Independent Lens New – 8 p.m.
“Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Black Colleges and Universities” – Explore the pivotal role historically black colleges and universities have played in American history, culture, and national identity. Their story celebrates the power of higher education to transform lives and advance civil rights and equality in the face of intolerance and injustice. Watch online.