Eastern Michigan University (EMU) will hold a series of events throughout February to mark Black History Month. The university aims to recognize the achievements and contributions of African Americans through educational, cultural, and community-focused programming. These events are open to both EMU students and the wider Ypsilanti community.
Dwight Hamilton, EMU’s chief access and opportunity officer, stated, “Black History Month is an opportunity for everyone to pause, reflect, and engage with the sacrifices, contributions, and achievements of Black people throughout history and across the globe. These events encourage learning, dialogue, and celebration while honoring the past and inspiring future generations.”
One event is an exhibition titled “Study & Struggle: 50 Years of African American Studies at EMU,” which runs through March 1 at Halle Library Gallery. An opening celebration is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 10 from 5 to 7 p.m., exploring the history and development of African American studies at EMU since the late 1960s.
On Thursday, Feb. 19 from 6 to 8 p.m., McKenny Hall will host Soul Food & Spoken Word Night in partnership with the Center of Race & Ethnicity and the EMU Black Student Union. The event includes dinner and spoken word performances; it is free but requires RSVP.
The Department of Africology and African American Studies will present a keynote address by Malik Yakini on Monday, Feb. 16 from 4 to 6 p.m. in Student Center Ballroom B. Yakini is an EMU alumnus and Detroit organizer who will speak on “Snatchin’ Off the Blindfolds!: Reflections on 50 years of Working to Promote Knowledge of the Histories and Cultures of African Peoples.” This keynote commemorates the centennial anniversary of what began as Black History Week.
A panel discussion titled “Navigating Higher Education as a Person of Color” will take place on Feb. 20 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in McKenny Tower room 348. Faculty members will share their experiences in academia as people of color and discuss current challenges facing students today.
Founded in 1849 primarily as a teacher preparation institution, Eastern Michigan University has evolved into a comprehensive public university offering more than two hundred undergraduate majors and minors along with various graduate programs https://www.emich.edu/. The campus features both historic architecture and modern facilities designed to support student success https://www.emich.edu/. Nationally recognized for its academic programs across multiple fields https://www.emich.edu/, EMU emphasizes career readiness by equipping students with practical skills for societal contribution https://www.emich.edu/.
James Smith has served as president of Eastern Michigan University https://www.emich.edu/.
For further details about upcoming events or information about Eastern Michigan University’s mission or offerings—including its focus on applied education—visit its official website at https://www.emich.edu/.
