Marquette University is set to commemorate Black History Month with a variety of events throughout February. The university’s programming, coordinated by the Center for Engagement and Inclusion, aims to highlight the significant contributions of African Americans to U.S. history and culture.
One key event, “Things Your History Teacher Didn’t Teach You: Blacks in History – Part 2,” will take place on Wednesday, February 5, at 12:15 p.m. This session, led by Derek Mosley, director of the Lubar Center for Public Policy Research and Civic Education, promises to enlighten attendees about the often-overlooked narratives in American history. Registration for this enlightening discussion is limited and available online.
Additionally, the Douglass Day Transcribe-A-Thon is scheduled for Friday, February 14, with two sessions at Raynor Library and the Lemonis Center for Student Success. This national event honors abolitionist Frederick Douglass and involves participants working collaboratively to transcribe historical documents, enhancing the accessibility of important African American records. This year’s focus will shine a light on the African American Perspectives Collection at the Library of Congress.
Throughout the month, visitors can also appreciate the “Visual Legacies: Photographs by Ellie Lee Weems” exhibition, showcasing the impactful work of Weems, whose photography chronicles the lives of African Americans in Jacksonville, Florida, over fifty years. This exhibition runs from February 1 to February 28 and invites reflection on the significance of Black photography in history.
In addition to these events, Marquette’s women’s basketball team will host a “Black Fives” night on February 5, and the annual Ebony Ball, organized by the Black Student Council, will take place on February 21. From February 24 to 28, the Black Joy exhibit will celebrate the joy encapsulated in Black culture at Marquette. The university’s Gospel Choir will also participate in various events, including performing the National Anthem at women’s basketball games.
These events not only serve to educate and recognize the rich tapestry of African American history but also foster a sense of community and celebration of culture at Marquette University. The continuation of such programming indicates a commitment to inclusivity and the acknowledgment of historical narratives that deserve emphasis and remembrance.