The Black Student Union, the Office of Multicultural Affairs and the Office of Intercultural Engagement and Belonging have joined to plan events that educate others and provide celebrations during Black History Month.
These celebrations are meant to honor the history and heritage of Black students, faculty and staff.
Ryan Bowman, director of multicultural affairs, said he hopes that the events this month will provide opportunities for open dialogue across differences.
“One of the things we have to learn as African Americans is that nobody will see the world through my eyes but me,” Bowman said. “So, how do we come together and sit down non-defensively and have open dialogue?”
Bowman said this year’s events will focus more on workshops and speakers rather than just events. His office has partnered with the Office of Spiritual Formation to bring in speakers that address topics like finding success in college as a student of color, maintaining spirituality amid distractions and exploring social justice.
“Let God lead it in a way that He wants it,” Bowman said. “But I know it’s possible for us to come together as spiritual human beings to sit down and learn from each other.”
The month will kick off with an Opening Chapel featuring the ACU Gospel Choir on Feb. 5, in Moody Coliseum. On Feb. 19, Brandon Jones will speak at Chapel in Moody Coliseum and later host a talk about the road to success for students of color in Onstead-Packer Biblical Studies Building in room 114. There will also be a Social Justice Workshop on Feb. 21, in the Brown Library in room 272 on how to build multi-ethnic allies.
Rev. Jessica Kemp will speak at Chapel on Feb. 26 and later host a talk about regaining one’s spiritual paradigm and connecting with Christ in BSB 114. The month will wrap up with a Student Panel Conversation with an African American Student Panel with faculty and staff on Feb. 29, in the Adams Center.
BSU’s specific events will consist of a Black Professional Chapel on Feb. 8 to discuss professionalism and job searching, a Black Love Movie Night on Feb. 14 in Hart Auditorium, a Silent Disco on Feb. 23 in Anthony Stadium, and an AFRAM Fest on March 1 in the WPAC Lobby at 6 p.m. The AFRAM Fest Showcase will feature local Black-owned businesses and a variety show of talent from the Black community.
Tia Morris, president of the Black Student Union, said BSU’s main goal is to emphasize the importance of Black history beyond the limitations of February
Bowman said while some annual events vary, AFRAM has become a staple. He hopes this year’s Black History Month programming will equip students with important skills and knowledge while fostering an inclusive, celebratory environment on campus.
