Institute of Public Scholarship

09/08/2026

🎨 As part of From This Place, the Remembering the Block Series is deepening our conversations with the people who built vital community on our N. Burdick block. We celebrate lives shaped by family, history, art, and Kalamazoo.

James Charles Palmore’s story stretches from his family’s roots in Arkansas and Louisiana to a lifetime of creating art and building community right here in Kalamazoo.

In this oral history, Palmore reflects on family, loss, his journey into art after returning from the Army, and the role creativity can play in strengthening communities.

These are the stories that help us remember the people, places, and experiences that shaped Kalamazoo. 💛

🎥 Watch James Charles Palmore share his story:
bit.ly/3TisBFt

James Charles Palmore traces his family’s journey from Arkansas to Kalamazoo, and how that history shaped a lifetime devoted to art and community. Palmore was born in Hope, Arkansas, in 1943 …

09/06/2026

performances ONE week from today 🧡🤎

09/05/2026

Come to Emancipation Jubilee Block Party!! On Eleanor street. Next Saturday September 12th 2026.

09/04/2026

09/04/2026

Today! Come by 313 N Burdick. Come see Libonique’s Art!

09/03/2026

Let's give a big shoutout to our generous sponsors who make 2nd Annual Emancipation Celebration Block Party possible!

Join us for the event at the Institute of Public Scholarship (313 N. Burdick St.) on Saturday, September 12th from 11 AM to 5 PM and enjoy entertainment, vendors, and engaging programs. It's free and open to everyone! 🎉

09/01/2026

Did you know? We are at Bronco Bash today!! Come check us out if you will be around 3:00-6:00.

08/31/2026

love wizkid?? get ready for Sept foley 😏💚
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08/30/2026

🖤🌈 Thank you for showing up for Black Pride! 🌈🖤

Yesterday was filled with music, movement, laughter, connection, and so much Black joy. ✨

From the incredible music and performances 🎶 to the voices shared during our open mic 🎤, the energy of the silent disco 🎧, and all the moments of community in between — Black Pride was a celebration of what happens when we come together and create space to simply BE.

To everyone who came out, performed, shared their voice, danced, volunteered, supported, and helped make the day possible — THANK YOU! 🫶🏾

And to our supporters and community partners who continue to invest in spaces where Black LGBTQ+ community can gather, celebrate, connect, and experience joy — we appreciate you. 🖤

Yesterday was about more than an event. It was community. It was connection. It was Black joy. It was PRIDE. 🌈✨

Until next time! 🖤🌈

Pride Kalamazoo