It’s finally that time again, the best month of the year: Black Heritage Month! There are countless reasons why a month focused on the complex history and development of Black and African American people in the United States is so necessary. I urge everyone at Hopkins and beyond to take time at some point (or several points) from now through the end of the 29th to learn something new or to support the Black community in some way. Fortunately, several Hopkins organizations and offices are making this easy to do right here on campus over the next few weeks. The Center for Diversity & Inclusion (D&I), the African Students Association (ASA), the Black Student Union, Counseling Center, Knotty By Nature (KBN), Men of Color Hopkins Alliance (MOCHA), and more are all hosting events centered around Black heritage through the month to celebrate. Here is a snapshot of a few events coming up:
2/14- Rhyme and Reason: Slam Poetry & Rap Showcase (hosted by BSU)
The LaB 8pm
2/20- Heritage 365 Speaker Series (hosted by Black Heritage 365 & OFSL)
Charles Commons Banquet Room 7-9pm
2/21- Heritage 365: Half-Day Symposium on Critical Race Theory (hosted by Black Hertiage 365 and OFSL)
Shriver Hall Clipper Room 3-7pm
2/21- Black Heritage Celebration Showcase
Shriver Hall 8pm
2/29- Black Student Union Formal
Email jhubsu@gmail.com for more information regarding tickets and location
I want to emphasize that, although many of these events have cultural and racial descriptors in the titles, all events are open to the entire campus. I challenge everyone to make it a point not only to support your fellow students, but to also use these opportunities educate yourselves, listen to diverse perspectives, and try something outside of your comfort zone. Black people in the United States have such a rich and underappreciated history, and these JHU organizations have put in months of planning to make interesting, engaging, and inclusive programming for all members of the Hopkins community. All you have to do now is show up and have a good time!
