“Black history isn’t a separate history. This is all of our history, this is American history, and we need to understand that.” — Karyn Parsons, writer and actor.
This statement captures the importance, value, and opportunities Black History Month presents as Eastern Michigan University formally begins our 2023 celebration.
Event details and registration links will be added to this page as they become available.
Thursday, February 2
Black Professionals Panel
This panel discussion will explore what it is like being Black in the workforce, mental health, career development, and much more! The event will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Student Center, Room 300.
Friday, February 3
Trip to the Wright African American History Museum
Join the Black Student Union and Campus Life for a trip to Detroit's African American History museum. $15 tickets for students. Transportation and admission are included in the ticket. The trip will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Purchase tickets at the link below.
Friday, February 10 - Sunday, February 19
EMU Theatre Production: Stick Fly
The Department of Communication, Media and Theatre Arts presents Stick Fly by Lydia Diamond. Directed by Randy Stewart, shows will take place on February 10, 11, 17, 18 at 7 p.m. and February 12 & 19 at 2 p.m., 2023 in EMU's Legacy Theatre. This production is suggested for mature audiences.
Wednesday, February 15
My Journey to City Hall: Lessons for Aspiring Young Politicians
The Department of Africology and African American Studies presents, “My Journey to City Hall: Lessons for aspiring Young politicians” a Black History Month presentation by Nicole Brown, Mayor, City of Ypsilanti. The event will take place from noon to 2 p.m. in the Student Center, Room 320.
Wednesday, February 15
Heal Humanity Now with Tomay Douglas
Learn how compassion, awareness, reflexivity, and equity can be used to facilitate critical conversations, deepen connections, and increase positive outcomes with Tomay Douglas, an in-demand expert in restorative justice. The event will take place from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Student Center, Room 208.
Wednesday, February 15
60 Years of Civil Rights: From the Church House to Social Media, the Struggle Continues
The Civil Rights and Social Justice Center presents, “A Conversation on Race, Policing, & Social Justice: Where Do We Go From Here?” a discussion with EMU alumnus Marques Banks. Banks serves as a staff attorney at the Advancement Project in Washington D.C. and as a volunteer for Law 4 Black Lives D.C. A panel discussion will follow featuring Natalie Holbrook, Michigan Criminal Justice Program; Dr. Aaron Rollins Jr., Peace, Justice, & Conflict Transformation Program, University of Louisville; Eleanore Ablan-Owens, Interfaith Council for Peace & Justice; and Rai Lanier, Michigan Liberation. The event takes place at 5 p.m. in the Student Center, Ballroom B.
Monday, February 20
Trivia Night: EMU Alumni vs. Students
As part of our Black History Month events, join us for Trivia Night: Alumni vs. Students. The event will take place from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Student Center Auditorium. Please make sure to register for the event at the link below if you want to participate.
Tuesday, February 21
Soul Food Tasting Night and Mingle
As a part of Black History Month, come and enjoy some soul food samples and mingle with students and alumni. The event will take place from from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the McKenny Ballroom. Make sure to register for the event at the link below.
Wednesday, February 22 - Thursday, February 23
Hip Hop Zumba
Join us for Hip Hop Yoga Celebrating Black History and bringing awareness to Eating Disorder week. Learn about eating disorders and how to overcome them, and then enjoy a free 90-minute Glow Zumba class! The event will take place in the REC-IM, Room 127 on Wednesday, February 22 at 5 p.m. and Thursday, February 23 at 3 p.m. Register at the link below.