As part of the 2022 From Slavery to Freedom Film Series, the History Center will show a free, online screening of “The One and Only Dick Gregory,” a bio-documentary about the comedian turned civil rights activist from the 1960s until his death in 2017. 

Dick Gregory was an icon for Black America. A comedian who used his considerable public platform for activism during the civil rights movement of the 1960s, he was the rare entertainer who felt almost as at home on the couch of “The Tonight Show” as he did on the front lines of the fight for racial equity and justice. 

Ayanna Gregory, daughter of Dick Gregory, will discuss the film and provide a more in-depth understanding of her father and his impact on her family, Black America, and the world following the film. Following in her father’s footsteps, Ayanna’s mission continues to take her around the country and across the globe. She is committed to creating safe and innovative spaces for healing and transformation. Thus, in addition to her life as a soul singer, she spends much of her time as an educator and motivational speaker, using the creative arts to instill self-love within the youth as well as inspiring communities around the world to use the arts to heal through trauma. 

“The One and Only Dick Gregory” is free with registration.  

The From Slavery to Freedom Film Series is presented by the History Center’s African American Program in partnership with the Frick Environmental Center of the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. The series is supported by Highmark and Allegheny Health Network.