Thursday, Feb. 1, kicks off the annual Black History Month celebration and unveils the 2024 theme, “Existing Outside the Lines: The Colors of Resistance.” Through a lens of intersectionality as art, this theme encapsulates the rich diversity within the Black community while also acknowledging the spectrum of color that Blackness holds.
“This month we celebrate the myriad of ways in which we, as Black individuals, have harnessed our creative ingenuity and applied our imagination to gain access to spaces as a form of resistance. As a continuance and connection to last year’s theme, ‘Black Resistance: Building Bridges and Navigating Barriers,’ it also highlights the ways we have had to get creative to get a seat at the table, showcasing the beauty and art of resistance,” shares Dashawn Austin ’23, Multicultural Affairs coordinator and co-chair of the Black History Month Planning Committee. “This month we honor our ancestors, highlight our contemporary changemakers and envision the future we want to build together. ”
With efforts led by the Black History Month Committee and campuswide coordination led by the Multicultural Affairs team, the campus community is invited to join a series of programs, events and discussions throughout the month. Event highlights include the following and a complete listing of events is available on the University Events Calendar.
In a symbolic tribute to the passion, strength and resilience of the Black community, campus buildings will be illuminated in red throughout Black History Month. This vibrant hue serves as a symbolic tribute to those who paved the way, connecting us to the past while lighting the path ahead.
“The red lights allow us to highlight the spirit of our people and ignite a shared sense of belonging. This simple act reaffirms our commitment to honoring our history and culture. As the soft glow blankets the sky and our buildings, we are reminded of the progress achieved and the enduring bonds that bring us together. The red emanates a message of hope, one of commemoration and celebration, of solidarity, that shines a light on our collective identity, reinforcing connections both now and for generations to come,” says Austin.
For questions, please contact Multicultural Affairs at oma@syr.edu or 315.443.0228.
Story written by Student Experience Communications Graduate Assistant Kalaya Sibley ’24, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications
