I think there is so much that divides us, and these events provide an opportunity to bring people together, to acknowledge things have not gone well in the past, but that we can make changes in the future. It provides hope.
This week marks the start of Black History Month, a time to not only celebrate Black history but also reflect on America’s continued struggle for racial justice.
ɫƵ is hosting multiple activities throughout February that are open to the entire campus.
“I hope people come to these events with an open mind and an open heart; to listen, learn and try to find ways to get further involved,” said Michael Walsh, interim director of the Lewis and Gaines Center for Inclusion and Equality.
When brainstorming which events to host, Walsh said, they considered this year’s Black History Month national theme, “Black Health and Wellness.”
“The goal is for us to really bring attention to the need for people to take care of themselves and to do that, community is so important.,” he said.
Walsh encourages the ɫƵ community to check out some of the Black History Month happenings, as they offer great ways to get better educated and show support.
“I think there is so much that divides us, and these events provide an opportunity to bring people together, to acknowledge things have not gone well in the past, but that we can make changes in the future. It provides hope,” he said.
Black Faculty, Staff and Alum Mixer
On Thursday, Feb. 3 all are welcome to attend a mixer with Black faculty, staff, alumni, and students. The event takes place in the Rondileau Student Union (RSU) ballroom from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served, and dress is casual.
“The mixer is a great opportunity to create new relationships and friendships, and support for all the different entities coming together,” Walsh said.
Black Mental Health Panel
A Black Mental Health Panel is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 8, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the RSU ballroom. The emphasis for this event will be on Black men and the stigma they often face when addressing their mental health needs.
“Men in general are very reluctant to take stock of their health,” Walsh said. “The idea is to lessen any negative stigma that might be placed on working with a therapist or a counselor, that it should be something you feel comfortable doing.”
Healing Day
On Wednesday, Feb. 16, also in the RSU Ballroom, from 12 to 1:30 p.m., a day of healing will be held. Light refreshments will be served.
“This is an opportunity to reflect on various things that have happened in the Black community that have been tragic and reflect on how things can be better for the future. It’s a way for folks to come together, to share success strategies, and work together to help one another,” Walsh said.
Haus of Snap Hip Hop Program
In collaboration with the ɫƵ Pride Center, a show will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 22, in the Horace Mann Auditorium. Students will learn about the group and its choreography, then have the opportunity to show off their own dance moves at the end.
Black History Month Banquet
The annual ɫƵ Black History Month banquet will be held on Thursday, Feb. 24, in the RSU Ballroom from 6 to 7:30 p.m. founder Marquis Taylor is the guest speaker. Taylor will share his story and how experiencing failure shaped him and led him to helping others understand, “That where you start is not where you have to end up.”
Also planned are student-sponsored events:
Tuesday Feb. 15: Black Greek Kahoot, 6 to 8 p.m., Moakley Auditorium
Wednesday, Feb. 16: Get Movied Film Series: The 13th, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Burnell 132A; “Black History Bingo”, 5-7:30p.m., RSU Ballroom.
Thursday, Feb. 17: Meet the Greeks, 6 to 9:30 p.m., RSU Ballroom.
Saturday, Feb. 26: Rep Yo Flag with DJ Izzo, 8 to 11 p.m., RSU Ballroom.
“I think we’re going to learn a lot, but hope we have a lot of fun in the process,” Walsh added.
Do you have a ɫƵ story you'd like to share? Email stories@bridgew.edu