The Multicultural Center kicked off Black History Month with several celebratory events last week. The 40th annual United Black World Month began Monday at Ohio State. This month-long celebration of African-American history includes lectures, art exhibits and other activities in honor of Black History Month.
United Black World Month is the same as Black History Month, said Christa Porter, intercultural specialist at the Multicultural Center.
“There is no difference — just a more inclusive and community-focused title,” Porter said.
Every year, the Multicultural Center uses the theme that the original founders of Black History Month use for United Black World Month. This year’s theme is black economic empowerment.
“The economy is certainly a hot topic now,” said Sandra Richardson, a third-year in African-American studies. “I think that the theme of economic empowerment is appropriate because that’s a topic on everyone’s minds.”
The self-made millionaire and motivational speaker Chris Gardner came to campus to kick off United Black World Month Monday.
Gardner, whose life and book inspired the movie “The Pursuit of Happyness,” spoke to students about his path from homelessness to financial success.
“I think it’s awesome that the university is recruiting these types of people to come here,” said Ronald Stokes, a first-year in sociology. “His story is an amazing one that anyone belonging to any race can learn from.”
Students were also able to enjoy plays, lectures and panel discussions about African-American history the first week of United Black World Month. Events like these will be occurring on campus throughout the month of February.
One highlight is a lecture that will teach students about the Nation of Islam, called “The African American Community and Islam.” “Black People, Black Love” will also occur this month, which is an event
that examines romantic love within the black community.
There will also be events held to help students improve their personal lives. There will be a financial management seminar, an event to promote physical fitness and a panel discussing social identity.
Many prominent speakers will also be coming to campus in honor of United Black World Month. World-renowned activist and public speaker Angela Davis will be the featured speaker for the month and will be coming to campus Feb. 11. She will be speaking at the Tom W. Davis Special Events Gym in the RPAC at 7:30 p.m.
Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Maya Angelou will also be coming to Ohio State Feb. 28. “An Evening with Maya Angelou” will take place in Mershon Auditorium at 6 p.m.
