The origin story of National Black History Month dates back to 1915, and has strengthened from that time to the present day. Historian and author Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded what is now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, and in 1926, launched the first Negro History Week in February.
Now, the celebration of Black history, culture and the continued journey towards justice is observed throughout the month.
“We recognize that even in 2021, many members of our Marymount community have not had the benefit of being educated about the influence and accomplishments of Black Americans in history,” explained Brooke Berry, Dean of Students, Equity and Inclusion. “Black history is American history. Our goal is to reframe the idea of the single story. The story of Blacks in America is not limited to poverty, crime and entertainment. Black people are inventors, historians, innovators, leaders and change-makers.”
Marymount is proud to celebrate Black History Month for all students, staff and faculty through several events organized by the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the Division of Student Affairs.
“This month’s Black History programming seeks to motivate and challenge our students to recognize their role in creating a more unified and inclusive future,” Berry said. “We honor the challenges and triumphs of the past with gratitude, but we want our community to be reflective in asking themselves, ‘What now? Where do we go from here? How will we keep from repeating failed history?’”
Black History Month events include:
Every Friday: Black History Month Trivia on social media @mustudentlife or @bewellmu
February 2-4: Equity Virtual Summit (registration is required)
February 3 at 6 pm: Just Mercy wrap-up discussion with guest Kuntrell Jackson (via Zoom)
February 4 at 7 pm: Just Mercy Movie Night (virtual)
February 8 at 6 pm: Session Series (Rowley Academic Center Suite 1004 & via Zoom)
February 9 at 12 pm: Behind the Pantsuit: BHM Luncheon w/guest Jennifer Carroll Foy (via Zoom)
February 11 at 7 pm: The Power of Activism with guest Dr. Tierney Bates (via Zoom)
February 11 from 8 to Midnight: DEI Office After Hours (Rowley Academic Center Suite 1004 & via Zoom)
February 17 at 6 pm: Where do we go from here? Students addressing current state of America – Town Hall (via Zoom)
February 18 at 6 pm: So you want to be successful – Career Discussion on Cybersecurity with guest Lonye Ford (via Zoom)
February 18 from 8 pm to midnight: DEI Office After Hours (Rowley Academic Center Suite 1004 & via Zoom)
February 19 at 7 pm: Black Love – RomCom Netflix Party (virtual)
February 20: Black History Scavenger Hunt (TBD)
February 22 at 12 pm: The Connect – Faculty and Staff of Color Network Meeting (via Zoom)
February 22 at 6 pm: Black, Latinx & Proud with guest Ela Mesa
February 24, TBD: Anti-Racism Workshop Guided Discussion (via Zoom)
February 25 from 8 pm to midnight: DEI Office After Hours (Rowley Academic Center Suite 1004 & via Zoom)
February 26 at 7 pm: Alumni Soul Food Dinner
