Join STNM’s own, Sarah (aka Juba) Addison for her Chautauqua performance honoring Ella Louise Boyer, wife of Francis (Frank) Marion Boyer, founder of Blackdom Township, New Mexico in 1903. Their idea was to “create a self-sustaining Black community free from the racial problems of the South.”

Ella was college educated and encouraged Black youth to pursue their educations. Blackdom boasted of a community school, with a curriculum that highlighted Black history as a means of empowering Black children.

Juba Addison celebrates the lives and stories of historical Black figures, especially those who may be lesser known, but whose contributions to Black history are significant. This interest motivated Juba to select Ella McGruder Boyer as the subject of this year’s Chautauqua, in honor of Black History Month whose 2026 theme is: A Century of Black History

Sponsorship: This event is sponsored by Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) Workforce & Community Success program.

Admission: Free — light snacks to be provided

Join on Zoom. Click HERE

More information about Juba Addison: Click HERE

For more information about Juba Addison see feature article on her in the February issue of New Mexico Magazine.

More Information about Frances & Ella Boyer: Click HERE