Every February, the Lumberjack community comes together to celebrate Black History Month with a wide variety of events that recognizes the rich, diverse culture, history and societal contributions of Black Americans and the global African diaspora. Many of the month’s events also raise awareness of the historical and ongoing struggles faced by Black Americans.
Bernadine Lewis, program director of NAU’s Center for Inclusive Excellence and Access, said it’s important for NAU to recognize Black history and culture because the history of the university is intertwined with the history of Black Americans.
“Black history includes the stories of the freedom of enslaved Africans, the civil rights movement and the elections of Vice President Kamala Harris and President Barack Obama, but it is so much more than that,” Lewis said. “Black history is the world’s history, and it encompasses the resilience, ingenuity and brilliance of billions of people through many millennia. That is why the Lumberjack community must come together to recognize and celebrate Black History Month.”
This year’s event lineup includes a book giveaway, a soul food cookout, a skate night and more. For details and information, visit the Office of Inclusion website’s Black History Month page.