Black History Month 2018 Kicks Off in February

A community leader behind a food revolution in urban areas will help Humboldt State celebrate and recognize African-American achievements throughout U.S. history.

Ron Finley, the self-proclaimed “Gangsta Gardener,” will be a keynote speaker at HSU’s celebration of Black History Month starting Feb. 1. He’ll discuss how he transformed unused urban areas into community gardens that grow healthy, local food.

Coordinated by the African American Center for Academic Excellence (AACAE) and organized by several campus groups, Black History Month will also include games, discussions, and a movie screening for students.

“By participating in our Black History Month events and acknowledging the month of February, students on campus may feel inspired to reflect on their own cultural backgrounds and identities,” says Kassandra Rice, logistics and administrative specialist at the AACAE.

Highlights of Black History Month events are below. Events may be subject to change, so please check the AACAE’s website for details.

Thursday, Feb. 1
Black History Month Kickoff
Noon – 1 p.m.
UC Quad / South Lounge

Opening Ceremony
6 – 9 p.m.
Kate Buchanan Room

Black Out
Women’s basketball 5:30 p.m.
Men’s basketball 7:30 p.m.
Lumberjack Arena
Watch the Lumberjacks take on Cal State East Bay. Wear black to the game in honor of Black History Month. Student tickets are free with an HSU ID.

Tuesday, Feb. 6
Bob Marley’s Birthday
Noon – 2 p.m.
African American Center for Academic Excellence
Enjoy cake & punch while listening to Bob’s music.

Monday, Feb. 12
Melanin Monday
Noon
UC Quad
Wear black in celebration of Black History Month.

Tuesday, Feb. 13
Ron Finley, Philosophy Forum Keynote
7 p.m.
Van Duzer Theatre
The self-proclaimed “Gangsta Gardener” is a community leader in South Los Angeles who has sparked a food revolution by converting unused urban areas into community gardens growing healthy, local foods.
$15 Adult & child; $5 students. Get tickets here.

Thursday, Feb. 15
Josiah Lawson Memorial
6 p.m.
Arcata Plaza

Feb. 19 – 23 & 26 – 28
Black Inventors Exhibit
All day
South Lounge, Karshner Lounge

Tuesday, Feb. 20
What’s Going On?
6 – 7 p.m.
Mad River Room (Jolly Giant Commons 324)
Join Dr. Wayne Brumfield & Dr. Cheryl Johnson for conversation and discussion regarding the safety of Students of Color on campus and in the surrounding communities.

Wednesday, Feb. 21
Black History Month Movie Screening (movie TBD)
7 p.m.
Minor Theatre, Arcata
With facilitated discussion. Free for anyone with a valid HSU ID.

Wednesday, Feb. 28
Black History Month Closing Ceremony
Noon – 1 p.m.
UC Quad / South Lounge