February is Black History Month (BHM), and the campus community is invited to celebrate Black history, culture and traditions through a series of programs and events coordinated by Multicultural Affairs and the Black History Month Planning Committee, as well as student organizations and campus partners. This year’s BHM theme is “Existing Outside The Lines: The Colors of Resistance.”
“This Black History Month really means the world to me because it allows for us to celebrate the intersections of Blackness and really highlight, appreciate and commemorate the uniqueness of our community,” shares Dashawn Austin, the coordinator of multicultural initiatives and co-chair of the Black History Month Planning Committee. “As a collective, we are creative, passionate and strong, and this month we specifically hold space for that.” Be sure to explore the full calendar of events, and read on for some highlights of the month!
Black History Month Kickoff Celebration Featuring Cleotrapa
The Black History Month Planning Committee, Student Association and University Union will hold an opening ceremony on Feb. 1 in Goldstein Auditorium from 7-9 p.m. to celebrate the start of Black History Month. Student groups and performers will take part in the celebration, as well as influencer-turned-rapper Cleotrapa.
Black History Month Open Gallery and Commemorative Event: Night at the Museum
In honor of Black History Month, Multicultural Affairs, the Syracuse University Art Museum and the LGBTQ Resource Center present “Night at the Museum.” Join us for an exclusive evening that will feature an open gallery and an Artist Talk with Rahm Bowen, a Brooklyn-based painter and Parsons alum whose striking portraits celebrate the diversity and humanity of the African diaspora. Bowen’s larger-than-life oil and acrylic paintings showcase a lineage of Blackness that is both ancient and futuristic. Color, texture and light are essential elements in his works, offering a window into a rich cultural world. Following the Artist Talk, there will be a reception where attendees can view Bowen’s work, meet the artist and connect with others in the creative community while enjoying refreshments. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from an acclaimed contemporary artist and commemorate Black History Month.
Trap N’ Paint
This is not your ordinary paint night! Bring your friends and your creativity to Trap N’ Paint. Enjoy a night filled with danceable beats from our guest DJ while you express your inner artist on a masterpiece you can take home. A complimentary “art piece” will be provided to attendees by the host, illustrator and dollmaker Jaleel Campbell.
All Wheels! No Ceilings! BHM Soul Skate
Join us on Thursday, Feb. 22, for a free Black History Month roller skating celebration hosted by the African Student Union, Black Student Union and Caribbean Students Association, in collaboration with Orange After Dark. Enjoy an evening of music, dancing, games and food as we skate the night away to tunes played by our DJ. Admission is free and skates are included. The event is open to all students, staff and community members. Let’s gather to honor Black culture and history through this iconic pastime!
Daring to Dream Gala
Syracuse University’s Black History Month Planning Committee invites you to a formal gala celebrating students’ ability to think beyond reality, and to wish for and create a better and Blacker future. Enjoy live performances by a special music guest, student artists and a delicious catered buffet dinner. The event takes place on Sunday, March 3, at Goldstein Auditorium. Doors open at 5 p.m. This is a black tie event. Tickets are free for Syracuse University students, faculty and staff, and are available through the Student Box Office. Let’s gather to recognize the remarkable achievements and contributions of Black culture on campus and beyond!