Monica

In celebrating Black History Month, Macy’s locations in nine cities are hosting panel discussions with black celebrities in art, music, film, television, literature, culinary arts and journalism throughout the month of February.

Macy’s recently kicked off the first of eight panel discussions on Wednesday (February 3rd) in New York City in which Grammy Award winner Monica, Actor, author and Former 106 & Park Host Terrence J, and actress Jurnee Smollett-Bell (who stars in upcoming show Underground) were on hand to participate.

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Essence Fashion Editor Joiee Thorpe served as moderator during the panel discussion where Monica, Jurnee and Terrence talked about a variety of topics including their personal influences and overcoming obstacles and giving inspirational words of advice. “God blessed all of us with something in us that’s great, it’s just up to us to tap into what it is find out what we’re passionate about and use your passion in order to become that success that you want to be,” Terrence J told the attendees as inspiration to follow their dreams and goals.

Those in attendance were also given the opportunity to ask the three celebrities questions during a Q&A, and also had the opportunity to pose for pictures with the stars during a post discussion meet and greet. Attendees also had the opportunity to win tickets to see the Brooklyn Nets vs the Charlotte Hornets.

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Following Wednesday’s kickoff event Macy’s will hold Black History Month panel discussions in Chicago, Philadelphia, Aventura, Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, San Francisco, Washington D.C. Other celebrities who are participating include Taye Diggs, Chef G. Garvin, sports reporter Rosalyn Gold-Onwude, Black Girls Rock! founder Beverly Bond and social activist Eunique Jones Gibson and illustrator Shane Evans.

Exclusive: Jurnee Smollett-Bell Talks New Series ‘Underground’