Discover our lineup of events marking Black History Month 2024—an opportunity to celebrate, learn, and reflect on the significant contributions of the Black community.
Event details and registration links will be added to this page as they become available.
Events
Ongoing
Black History Moments - WEMU 89.1FM
Celebrate Black History Month by listening to Black History Moments on WEMU 89.1FM. The short vignettes, voiced by community members, tell the stories of Washtenaw County's Black residents and history. Find the stories here.
Thursday, Feb. 1
In Defense of Democracy and Freedom: An evening of real-life cross-testimonies
In defense of Democracy and Freedom: An evening of real-life cross-testimonies on war experiences of African American veterans,” a Zoom-based Black History Month presentation. This event will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. via Zoom at this link. More information about the panelists and speakers is available on the webpage.
Wednesday, Feb. 7
Eastern Michigan University welcomes celebrity fashion icon and alumna Desyrée Nicole for campus experience to kick off National Girls and Women in Sports Day – Feb. 7
Eastern Michigan University celebrity fashion icon and alumna Desyrée Nicole plans to return to campus for a series of events to kick off EMU's annual celebration of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, an observance held during the first week of February to commemorate progress towards equality in women's sports. This event will happen from 3 to 8 p.m. For more information and a list of events during Desyrée Nicole’s visit, read more.
Friday, Feb. 9
Detroit trip to Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
Join us for an educational trip to the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit. Explore African Americans' vibrant heritage and rich contributions through captivating exhibits and powerful stories. An enriching experience for the EMU community to connect, learn, and celebrate this significant cultural legacy. A fee of $10 is required for registration, which includes transportation, admission, and lunch. Plan to meet at the Student Center Circle Drive at 9:30 a.m. The bus will leave promptly at 10 a.m. and return to campus at 4 p.m. Register here. If students need financial assistance, please email [email protected]
Wednesday, Feb. 14
Lecture on "Cultural Hegemony & the American Experience: Towards an Understanding of the Afrocentric Epistemological Paradigm"
A Black History Month lecture by Professor Molefi Kete Asante from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Student Center, room 300. More information about panelists and speakers is available on the webpage.
Friday, Feb. 15
Soul Food and Spoken Word Night 2024
Join the Center of Race and Ethnicity and the Brotherhood Sisterhood Scholars Program as they celebrate the significance soul food, storytelling and spoken word, and has had on the Black community. This event will kick off from 6 to 8 p.m. at EMU’s McKenny Ballroom. This event is free however, RSVP is required.
Thursday, Feb. 15 - Sunday, Feb. 18
EMU Theatre presents "Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea"
Blending poetry, humor, wordplay, and ritual, Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea is a present-day hero’s quest exploring the lengths and depths we must go to redeem history’s wrongs. Performances will occur on Feb. 15 -17 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 17 and Feb. 18 at 2 p.m., one weekend only. Go to the theatre website for ticket information.
Monday, Feb. 19
"Think Fast" Black History Trivia Night
Prepare an evening of knowledge and celebration at the "Think Fast" Black History Trivia Night, hosted by the Center of Race and Ethnicity in the Student Center Ballroom. Test your wits and delve into the rich tapestry of Black history with engaging trivia questions spanning from pivotal moments to influential figures. Enjoy complimentary snacks as you compete for prizes. This event is free and happens from 6-8 p.m. No registration is required.
Tuesday, Feb. 20
Civil Rights & Social Justice Center Voter ID Clinics
Eastern Michigan University's Civil Rights & Social Justice Center is hosting a series of Voter ID Clinics in honor of Black History Month. Clinics will be held at various locations throughout EMU's campus. The purpose of the Clinics is to assist students and community members with any questions they may have regarding voter identification and the voting process. Representatives from the Center will be available to provide valuable information and guidance on obtaining proper identification, registering to vote, and casting a ballot. This initiative aims to promote civic engagement and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to exercise their right to vote.
Clinic #1: Pray-Harrold, second floor, noon. to 5 p.m.
Clinic #2: Halle Library, first floor, noon to 5 p.m.
Volunteer assistance is needed. Please sign up by clicking here.
Clinic #1: Pray-Harrold, second floor, noon. to 5 p.m.
Clinic #2: Halle Library, first floor, noon to 5 p.m.
Volunteer assistance is needed. Please sign up by clicking here.
Tuesday, Feb. 20
SPEAK SIS! Breaking the Spectrum: Confronting Colorism Head-On
This SPEAK SIS! Dialogue will be a two-part series highlighting the origin of colorism and what it looks like today. The discussion will include pop culture, beauty, empowerment, and much more. This event is presented by the Center of Race and Ethnicity and the Brotherhood Sisterhood Scholars Program. Join the discussion from 6-8 p.m. in EMU's Student Center, room 330. This event is free and open to the public.
Thursday, Feb. 22
Panel discussion on "Black Intifada: The Roots and Legacies of Black and Palestinian Solidarity"
An insightful panel discussion that uncovers the history and impact of Black and Palestinian solidarity. Discover shared struggles and activism, uncovering enduring connections between these movements. Gain a deeper understanding of global solidarity efforts and be inspired by the collaborative pursuit of justice. This event will happen in the Student Center Auditorium from 6 to 8 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 23
Cultural Crossroads: Celebrating Black History
Hang out with the Black Media Association as they collect donations for Swoops Pantry at their talent show. Talent will include singers, dancers, and poets, among others. Attendees can also expect pop-up shops from student businesses. Join in the excitement from 6-8 p.m. inside the Student Center Auditorium. This event requires a donation upon entry. Registration is not required. For more information visit the Association's Instagram.