Black History Month happenings on campus

The annual celebration of Black History Month is a time to celebrate and acknowledge the culture, achievements, and resilience of African Americans in our country. We recognize and honor the contributions they have made to society and the role they play in U.S. History. Black History Month became officially recognized in 1976 by President Gerald Ford and was upheld by every president thereafter. It had formerly been known as “Negro History Week,” which was established in 1926 and was only a seven-day observance. The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) first sponsored the event and inspired schools and communities nationwide to host celebrations of their own thereafter.

Here at CSU, not only do we honor Black History Month, but we also have a variety of clubs, councils, and organizations that support and celebrate Black history and diversity all year round. The African American Society, Gospel Choir, Diversity Council, Diversity Committee and several sororities and fraternities are all active sources or support and recognition of African American culture and influence on campus.

This year multiple organizations on campus have dedicated time and energy into honoring Black History Month throughout the month of February. 

On February 2, the One Accord Gospel Choir performed a praise dance and sang a few notable African American songs at CSU Chapel. In addition, Rev. Timothy Grant, CSU’s diversity officer, shared a sermon at a chapel service on February 16.

The African American Society (AAS) hosted a spirit week from February 14-February 18, which featured a different outfit theme every day. Monday was “HBCU Day,” where students wore paraphernalia from a favorite Historical Black College or University. Students wore their favorite 90s inspired outfits on Tuesday. Wednesday was “44^th Day,” which honored the 44^th President Barack Obama, and students wore business attire. On Thursday’s “Twin Day,” students matched outfits with a friend. To end the week, students wore all black on “Black Out Day.” The AAS also hosted a “Red & Black Sit-In,” on Thursday, February 17 which consisted of a free movie night, showing The Wiz, and free refreshments. 

CSU is wrapping up its celebration of Black History Month with a “R&Brush” event hosted by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and the CSU Diversity Office. The free event will feature canvas painting as well as R&B music by DJ E&T Grizzle. It will be held Monday, February 21 in the Cove Conference Room on the second floor of Student Center from 6 to 8 p.m. To attend the event, students may register for one of the two sessions. 

Black History Month is a way of teaching students about African Americans contributions and celebrating those who have impacted not just the country but the world with their activism and achievements. African American history goes beyond discussions of racism and slavery, it highlights leaders and their accomplishments.

Brianna Newman is a senior at Charleston Southern University and an intern for the Marketing & Communication office.

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