Black History Month launches discussion, information at ESU
Emporia State University’s Multicultural Programs and Services and Black Student Union are joining to provide unique and educational activities to celebrate Black History Month.
“Black History Month honors and recognizes the accomplishments of the black community,” said Dr. Barbara Baker, Director of Multicultural Affairs at ESU. “This celebration outlines their contributions to American history and brings to light some names of people that students maybe did not learn about in school.”
This February marks the 82nd celebration of Black History Month. “Negro History Week” was first created in 1926 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson during the second week of February. The celebration coincides with the birthdays of two men who had a great influence on the black population: Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. Over time, “Negro History Week” was expanded to include the whole month.
“Black History Month represents American history, it is not just for blacks, but it is for everyone to learn and celebrate the contributions of the black community to society,” Baker said.
Events highlighting this year’s celebration:
| February 13 | Black History Month Open Mic Night:7-9 p.m., Hornet’s Nest, Memorial Union |
| February 18 | Black History Month speaker: Earl Williams6-9 p.m., Science Hall |
| February 19 | Brett Sokolow- “Drunk Sex or Date Rape: Can you tell the difference?”8 p.m., Colonial Ballroom, Memorial Union |
| February 21 | Black History Month speaker: Derrais Carter5-7 p.m., Colonial Ballroom, Memorial Union |
| February 28 | Ask a Black Dude7-10 p.m., Kanza Room, Memorial Union |
For more information, contact the Multicultural Affairs Office at 620-341-5481.
Last Updated February 13, 2008>