Governors State University Black History Month Marks ‘Crossroads of Freedom’

University Park, IL—(ENEWSPF)—February 1, 2013. Governors State University is celebrating Black History Month 2013 with a wide range of events focusing on the struggles, successes, and contributions of African Americans in the United States.

This year’s Black History Month at GSU follows the theme of “Crossroads of Freedom” and marks two important anniversaries in the history of African Americans and the United States – the sesquicentennial of the Emancipation Proclamation and the 50^th anniversary of the March on Washington.

GSU Dean of Students Aurelio Valente said February has been annually recognized as Black History Month since 1926. In February, he said, the nation commemorates the historical and cultural experiences, and contributions, of African Americans. This year is particularly meaningful because of the anniversaries of two such important events in American history, he said.

“As an institution of higher learning with a mission deeply entrenched in diversity and social justice, it is gratifying to see students, faculty, and staff at GSU come together to sponsor a robust calendar of events for Black History Month,” Dr. Valente said.

Upcoming Black History Month events at GSU include:

History Through the Arts – Poetry and Music, on Monday, February 4, from 2 to 4 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. This event is sponsored by the Black Student Union.
African American Read-In, on Monday, February 4, from 6 to 8 p.m., in Engbretson Hall. Anyone who wishes to read an excerpt from a book, poem, or essay by an African American author can contact Professor Rashidah Muhammad at [email protected].
Africana Hip Hop Dance with Riley, on Tuesday, February 5, from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m., in the Hall of Governors.
“Managing Equal Opportunity and Diversity,” an open class on Tuesday, February 5, from 7:30 to 10:20 p.m., in Room B2201. The class will explore civil rights, equal opportunity questions, and diversity. Interested persons should RSVP to Professor David Schumpp at [email protected].
African American Military Contribution to American Freedom Film Series: “The Miracle of Santa Ana,” on Wednesday, February 6, from 5 to 7:30 p.m., in Engbretson Hall. This event is sponsored by the Office of Veteran’s Affairs.
GSU Black History Jeopardy, on Wednesday, February 13, from noon to 4 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. This event is sponsored by Student Life.
African American Military Contribution to American Freedom Film Series: “Glory,” on Wednesday, February 13, from 5 to 7:30 p.m., in Engbretson Hall. This event is sponsored by the Office of Veteran’s Affairs.
“An Evening Honoring GSU African-American Researchers,” an open class on Wednesday, February 13, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. This class explores the history of the American social welfare system from its antecedents in Europe to the present day. Attention is given to marginalized political groups and how oppression and discrimination have impacted the social histories of these groups. Interested persons should RSVP to Professor Asabi S. Yakini at [email protected].
“DRUMLine Live,” on Friday, February 15, at 7 p.m., at Governors State University Center for Performing Arts. “DRUMLine Live” is an international tour based on the bold beats and ear-grabbing energy of the Historically Black College and University Marching Band traditions. With choreographed routines and heavy doses of drum riffs, the show incorporates original compositions and soul-infused interpretations of top 40 hits. Tickets are $15 to $58 and are available at www.centertickets.net or (708) 235-2222.
Black History Month Film Series: “Cracking the Codes -The System of Racial Inequality,” on Monday, February 18, from 6 to 8 p.m., in the Center for Performing Arts Lobby. This event is sponsored by the Academic Resource Center, College of Arts and Sciences, and the GSU Intellectual Life Committee.
Test Your Knowledge of African American History, on Tuesday, February 19 and Tuesday, February 26, from noon to 4 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. This event is sponsored by Student Life.
Taste of BSU – Soul Food Lunch, on Wednesday, February 20, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the Cafeteria Annex. There is a charge for food items. This event is sponsored by the Black Student Union.
GSU Students on the Move – a Civic Engagement in Action Presentation, on Thursday, February 26, from 6 to 8 p.m., in Engbretson Hall. This event is sponsored by Student Life.
Natural Hair, Health, and Beauty Conference, on Tuesday, February 26, from 2 to 6 p.m., in the Hall of Governors. This event is sponsored by Black Student Union.
“Intersecting Identities – Race and Beyond,” on open class on Tuesday, February 26, from 4:30 to 7 p.m., at the Naperville Education Center, 2244 W. 95^th Street, Naperville. Interested persons should RSVP to Professor Crystal Blount at [email protected].
Black History Month Film Series – “Crimson Tide,” on Wednesday, February 27, from 5 to 7 p.m., in Engbretson Hall. This event is sponsored by the Academic Resource Center, College of Arts and Sciences, and the GSU Intellectual Life Committee.
GSU’s First “Black Women Rock” Awards Ceremony, on Thursday, February 28, from 7 to 9 p.m., in Sherman Hall. This awards ceremony honors African American women who are making or have made strides in a variety of areas.