Black History Month
Loyola University Chicago's Black History Month is a celebration of the contributions African-Americans and Africans have made throughtout history. The month consists of a variety of lectures, performances and other events that highlight Black history and culture.
In 1926, Carter G. Woodson created "Negro History Week" as a way to promote the culture and contributions of black folk, particularly those in the United States. The second week of February was chosen in honor of the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Woodson felt that both Lincoln and Douglass were two American figures that had positively influenced African-Americans. At the time "Negro History Week" was created, historical references of black folk were primarily negative and deprecating. Black History Month
2008 Black History Events
Friday, February 1st
Black History Month Kickoff
11:00-5:00pm, Student Union Lobby (LSC)
Come out and pick up a Black History Month T-Shirt and calendar that highlight the upcoming events. A $2 donation will be required for a t-shirt.
Wednesday, February 6th
Blacks in Science lecture w/ Dr. Rick Kittles - "Race, Racism, and Racialization in the DNA Era"
4:30pm, Life Science Building, Auditorium Room 142
Dr. Kittles’ pioneering research explores the biological and socio-cultural issues related to “race” and the uses of DNA technology to help African Americans trace their genetic ancestry, understand their family origins, and reclaim vital connections to their hidden past. He was featured in the PBS specials, African American Lives (2006) and Oprah’s Roots (2007) hosted by Henry Louis Gates and most recently in “Roots,” a 60 Minutes report on genetic genealogy presented by Lesley Stahl (October 7, 2007). He was also featured in the BBC films Motherland: A Genetic Journey and Motherland -- Moving On.
Thursday, February 7th
Black State of the Union Address w/ Special Guest
7:00pm, Simpson Hall, Multipurpose Room (LSC)
This event will feature scholars from different professional fields to discuss the issues facing Black America local and globally.
Wednesday, February 20th
2nd Annual Live Poetry Jam
7:00pm, Zips (Student Union, Lower Level) (LSC)
Join us as we host some of Chicago’s premier poets. The performance stage will also be open to students, faculty and staff. For more information contact: Benjamin Harris at bharri7@luc.edu or 773-508-3929.
Thursday, February 21st
Reflections w/ Levon Mercer
11:30pm, Bremner Lounge, CFSU (LSC)
Levon Mercer is African-American man who enjoyed a 14-year career as an Israeli basketball player, acquired Israeli citizenship, and served in the Israel Defense Forces. Ten years ago he retired from professional sports and now serves as Head Basketball Coach and Associate Athletic Director at Spelman College, the outstanding historically Black women's college. Lunch will be served
Saturday, February 23rd
Ebony Ball
8:00pm-12:00am, Kasbeer Hall, 25 E. Pearson (WTC)
Come and have fun downtown Chicago at Loyola’s Water Tower Campus for a night of elegant dancing and recognition. This celebratory event is a Loyola tradition and an opportunity for students to share their achievements and culture with the campus community. Dinner will be served from 8-10pm.
Sunday, February 24th
Soul Food Sunday
4:00pm, McCormick Lounge, Coffey Hall (LSC)
Join us as we celebrate Black History Month with a soul food extravaganza. This event is free and open to everyone!
Tuesday, February 26th
Robben Island Singers Documentary film screening w/ Director
4:30pm, Life Science Auditorium, Room 142
The Robben Island Singers have been performing their songs and stories of survival of the prison on Robben Island to the general public ever since they shared the prison with South African President Nelson Mandela, who spent 27 years there as a political prisoner. Special guest include the Filmmaker and Concert Director, Jeff Spitz, and Muntu Nxumalo, Musical Director.
Wednesday, February 27th
Black Arts Festival
11:00-5:00pm Student Union Lobby (LSC)
Come and experience a piece of African culture through the arts. This event will feature unique displays of African food, music, art, and dance for students to enjoy.
Wednesday, February 27th
“Know Your Heritage Bowl”
7:00pm, Student Union Lobby (LSC)
Come out and cheer on your friends as they compete by knowing historical facts and key figures of American culture from the African American perspective.
Black History Month 2008 is brought to you by: The Department of Student Diversity & Multicultural Affairs, Black Cultural Center, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Hillel, Black World Studies, Athletics, Residence Life and the Student Activity Fund. For additional information, please contact Benjamin Harris at 773-508-3929 or bharri7@luc.edu.