University celebrates Black History Month, focuses on women
Women’s achievements will be emphasized during Black History Month this February both on campus and throughout the nation.
Each year, the African-American Cultural Center’s programming at the University follows the national theme; this year, it focuses on “Black Women in American History and Culture.”
The theme was chosen to honor black women and “the myriad of roles they played in the shaping of our nation,” according to the African-American History
CHARLAYNE HUNTER-GAULT
Black women have played a significant role in the University’s history since 1961, when Charlayne Hunter-Gault was one of the first two black students admitted to the University after the institution de-segregated.
LaRetha Spain-Schuler, associate director of intercultural affairs, said she hopes this year’s programming will educate people of the accomplishments of women such as Phillis Wheatley, Harriett Tubman, Rosa Parks and Ida B. Wells.
The AACC will also highlight the achievements of a younger generation of noteworthy black women, including Toni Morrison, Oprah Winfrey, Laila Ali and First Lady Michelle Obama, Spain-Schuler said.
“The accomplishments of many of these women are exceptional, and they have brought vibrancy to the African-American community in so many ways,” Spain-Schuler said.
This month’s programs will include discussion topics such as: “Where are the Black Ballet dancers in America?” and “We Have Issues: Representations of African American Women in Contemporary Media.”
Although the theme will be centered on women, the AACC’s programs will also acknowledge the achievements of black men, according to Spain-Schuler.
“When we recognize the theme, we try to focus the majority of the programs on women,” Spain-Schuler said. “But we don’t want men to feel left out.”
Black History Month will begin a showing of “The Meeting,” a play focusing on a hypothetical conversation between Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr.
Alumna and Mayor of Riverdale Evelyn Dixon will be a keynote speaker on Feb. 22 in the University Chapel. Spain-Schuler said after being homeless for a time and going on to become mayor, Dixon has “a phenomenal story to share.”
Dixon said she feels a connection to the University; she graduated with a master’s in social work in 1995, and both of her sons played college football.
Dixon said she will “look to God” to decide what she will say during her speech.
“I have had some obstacles in my life that I had to overcome, and it made me a better and stronger person because of it,” she said. “I just want to share that with the women there.”
Dixon said she believes within the past three or four years, more people have begun to recognize the accomplishments of black women within the community.
“Now women are forging ahead,” Dixon said.
Black History Month at the University:
February 1
Play: The Meeting, 6:00 PM, University Chapel
February 8
APERO Brown Bag Discussion
How the Accusation of Acting White Influences Leisure Preferences
Presented by: Bantu D. Gross.
12:15 PM, 407 Memorial Hall, Adinkra Hall
February 9
The Death of the African American Family
Presented by: Dr. Tera Hurt
12:30 PM, Location: Adinkra Hall
February 16
Where are the Black Ballet dancers in America?
4:00 PM, 407 Memorial Hall, Adinkra Hall
February 17
Dinner, Movie, Discussion: The Help
Co – sponsored with the CBCP & University Union
6:00 PM, Tate Theater
February 19
Black Theatrical Ensemble Presents: Black Roses
7:00 PM Tate Grand Hall
Tickets: $2 (students), $3 (non– students)
February 22
APERO Brown Bag Discussion: A Mediator’s Work
Presented by Raye, M. Rawls, J.D.
12:15 PM, 407 Memorial Hall, Adinkra Hall
February 22
Keynote Speaker: Mayor Evelyn Dixon of Riverdale, Ga.
4:00 PM, University Chapel
February 23
The Emerging Black Church
6:00 PM, Miller Learning Center Room 171
February 28
We Have Issues: Representations of African American Women in Contemporary Media?
7:00 PM, Adinkra Hall
February 29
Confessions of a Big Girl, Reflections on Fat, Faith and Femininity
Presented by: Dr. Naima Johnston Bush
4:00 PM, South PJ Auditorium
