MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — The Bronzeville Center of the Arts is doing their part to honor Black History Month with a book signing and discussion about an important Milwaukee civil rights leader.

“Valiant Vel,” written about Vel R. Phillips, tells the story of the first African American and first woman elected to Milwaukee’s Common Council.

The author, Jerrianne Hayslett, says she waited for someone to write about Phillips for years, and decided to take on the task for herself.

“The idea was to make the story about Vel Phillips accessible to kids who really need and should learn about her and her journey,” Hayslett said.

The Bronzeville Art Center has one more event to celebrate Black History this month.

Next Thursday, they’re hosting a presentation on quilting and its connections to African American history and culture.