As February unfolds, the opportunity arises to reflect on the profound contributions and rich heritage of Black individuals throughout history. Black History Month serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles, triumphs and enduring legacy of the Black community, inviting everyone to celebrate diversity and promote understanding within institutions.
This month provides a platform to amplify marginalized and overlooked voices, shedding light on the countless achievements and milestones attained despite systemic barriers. From civil rights activists and trailblazing leaders to artists, scientists and scholars, Black individuals have played pivotal roles in shaping society and advancing progress in various fields.
However, the significance of Black History Month extends beyond mere acknowledgment of past accomplishments; it underscores the ongoing journey toward racial equity and social justice. It prompts others to confront uncomfortable truths about the nation’s history of slavery, segregation and discrimination, acknowledging the enduring effects of systemic racism that continue to permeate institutions and communities.
“The only real way to ensure any kind of change in a meaningful capacity is to effectuate it yourself. Black history is not confined to four weeks in a year, and neither are the sociopolitical obstacles stemming from that history that African-descended people are currently facing globally on a daily basis,” said Tylese Rideout, FCRH ’25, secretary of ASILI: Black Student Alliance.
To kick off the celebration of Black culture, ASILI started with a Black History Month bingo and curl talk to highlight the importance of loving and owning one’s hair; they also tested the knowledge of those who attended. On the day of love, ASILI will be hosting its monthly general meeting, and the theme is “Black Love.” On Feb. 20, ASILI welcomes keynote speaker Ilyasah Shabazz, Malcolm X’s daughter.
Shabazz’s lecture, “Empowering Voices: a Legacy of Inclusion Within the Youth”, will explore the theme of empowering the voices of youth and fostering inclusion. ASILI will end their celebrations with a Black History Month reception dinner.
Russian Adams, a graduate intern for the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA), said, “Institutions of higher education like Fordham have the responsibility to preserve and spread knowledge. Preserving Black history at institutions is extremely important due to the uneven and sometimes untrue teachings of history students may come into universities with.”
The OMA Black History Committee kicked off the month by having interactive tabling at both Rose Hill and Lincoln Center, a fun “Eats and Beats” event at Lincoln Center and a successful Art Night in collaboration with the Campus Activities Board at Rose Hill. OMA has a multitude of other events throughout the month that are worth taking a look at. They will be hosting a “Black Love Lunch” on Valentine’s Day and a “Love Your Skin Tabling” the next day. Everyone is invited to attend the “Black History Month Art Showcase” on Feb. 22, and students are encouraged to sign up for their excursion to the MoCada Museum Outing, sponsored by OMA.
In collaboration with the Lincoln Center Black Student Alliance, Caribbean Students Club, OMA and the Career Center, alumni and undergraduate students are invited to attend the “Black History Month Alumni Panel and Reception Dinner” on Feb. 26.
These events provide opportunities to engage with the Fordham community, gain insights and demonstrate solidarity and inclusivity. Stay on the lookout for more information regarding all events for this month, and feel free to contact OMA ([email protected]) and ASILI ([email protected]) regarding any questions! Those interested in staying updated on ASILI’s Black History Month events can follow the club on their Instagram @asili_fu.
