ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – February is Black History Month. The University of Lynchburg is honoring the rich tapestry of African American culture, history and leadership through a series of events. The University is taking this opportunity to educate its staff, students and community about the depth of Black history.
For centuries, African Americans have played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s history, contributing to its cultural, social and political landscape.
“For me, Black History Month is a celebration of all those who came before us. Some of those people were overlooked on their achievements and the things they’ve done for us in general. I feel like it’s important to acknowledge them and teach them along our way as well. It also helps to inspire the next generation,” said University of Lynchburg Graduate Student and CHAMPS Project Manager Christian Otero.
The University of Lynchburg is hosting a series of events under the theme ‘Black Renaissance: Embracing and Celebrating Black Culture and Identity.’ It aims to spread awareness about Black history and educate the community on the importance of recognizing these contributions year-round.
“The experiences of our marginalized communities are so important, and we need to uplift the voices of those people so that we can focus on the issues to make our community better. If we aren’t amplifying those voices and we miss out on those issues, then we’re not able to address their concerns and we leave part of our population behind,” said Assistant Director for Student Diversity Initiatives, Alexis Scott.
Scott said these events reflect the University of Lynchburg’s dedication to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) and address barriers faced by underrepresented students.
“By allowing these events and allowing these places to be safe spaces to have these conversations we will make lives better,” said Scott.
“I learn something new about another entrepreneur or social activist every time Black History Month comes around. I feel like that’s the same for various students here on campus and looking to the past, they believe they can be someone like that as well.” said Otero.
The following events will be held:
- Wednesday, Feb. 5: “Code Red” men’s basketball game, during which fans are asked to wear red. The game begins at 7:30 p.m., and the Hornets will play crosstown rival Randolph College. Admission is free.
- Saturday, Feb. 8: Lynchburg students, faculty, and staff will travel to Washington, D.C., where they’ll visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The daylong trip is free and includes transportation, museum admission, and dinner. Those interested in the D.C. field trip should contact Alexis Scott, at 434.544.8841 or [email protected].
- Thursday, Feb. 20: A movie night, with the theme of “Cultural Insights Through Film,” will be held from 7-9 p.m. Admission is free.
- Saturday, Feb. 22: The Lead & Learn DEIB Summit, featuring a keynote speaker, breakout sessions, and a panel discussion, will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Speakers and panelists include, among others, Lynchburg alums Dr. Marcia Bennett ‘07 and Davion Washington Jr. ‘21. Admission is $15 for students and $30 for the general public. Participants can register here.
- Sunday, Feb. 23: The annual gospel concert, a collaboration between Lynchburg and Randolph College, will be held at Randolph’s Smith Hall. Admission is free.
- Friday, Feb. 28: Lynchburg’s second Minority Business Expo, “Building Communities Through Partnerships,” will be held in Hall Campus Center’s Memorial Ballroom from 2-7 p.m. Admission is free, the public is invited, and light refreshments will be served. Vendors are invited to promote their businesses or organizations and sell their products and services. The cost to participate is $50 per table. Vendors can register here.
Black History Month events are sponsored by student affinity groups, the JEDI Education Committee, the Student Activities Board, the Student Government Association, the African American Affinity Group, the Helen Mundy Witt Society, Hopwood & LaRue Catering and Events, the Junior League of Lynchburg, and the NAACP.
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