Lance Gunn, former NFL player, University of Texas safety and Longhorn Hall of Honor recipient, is expected to speak at the Feb. 18 Black History Month program in Leander.

The city of Leander will host its first Black History Month program Feb. 18 with special guest speaker Lance Gunn, former NFL player, University of Texas safety and Longhorn Hall of Honor recipient.

Organizer and Leander Economic Development Manager Eric Zeno said the event titled Celebrating 50 Years of Civil Rights in America is an opportunity for the community to come together and recognize Black History Month.

"In most cities I have been in, they have a Black history program or some kind of recognition for the month of February," Zeno said. "Being in economic development, we wanted to be like that and show our diversity as a city. So I took it upon myself to approach the city manager and Mayor about having representation in the city of Leander."

The free event—made possible through sponsorships—is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Hill Country Bible Church Leander, 11880 Old FM 2243 West, Ste. 600. Zeno said in addition to the guest speaker, there will be refreshments and entertainment.

"My vision is to educate and bring about awareness of African American and Black cultures," he said. "As a part of this program, a church choir is going to sing, we're going to have a dance team, and we're going to have someone do media presentation on Black history moments."

Also during the program, local business owner Marty Washington will receive an honorary award, Zeno said.

"This is the first event of its kind in Leander," he said.

More information is available through the Leander Economic Development office, 512- 528-2855 or [email protected].