Welcome to the 6th Annual 44 Days: Honoring Black History Month
The Black Leadership Coalition (BLC) formerly BLM is proud to present the 6th Annual 44 Days of Honoring Black History that will take place February 11 to March 26, 2023. Celebrating 44 Days of Black History is a nod to the first Black President of the United States, Barack Obama. It is also symbolic in recognizing the constraints of celebrating Black History during the shortest month of the year. Dr. Calvin Monroe and Dr. Bedford Palmer were instrumental in envisioning a celebration that lasted beyond the 28 days of February, because Black History along with all other histories, should be shared throughout the year.
The theme this year is Making a Joyful Noise: Lifting UP Black Voices. The BLC team has curated a dynamic set of events which will include the BLC Kickoff in collaboration with Student Life and the Involvement Fair on Wednesday, February 15 during Community Time. Subsequent to the kickoff, we have the forum sub-themed, Each One Teach One: Lesson for the Road Ahead which has been organized with key members of the Black Student Union to ensure that programming is conducive to their needs. Therefore, we have organized a recent alumni panel, breakout sessions with campus resource representatives, and a panel of Black professionals. As usual, we will have a mental health series spread throughout the 44 Days as well as set up a restorative space for students, faculty, and staff. New this year, we will have two featured speakers – Dr. Guthrie Ramsey and Dr. Shaun Anderson.
There will be other events in partnership with Collegiate Seminar, Black Student Union, and other offices, departments, and groups on campus.
We look forward to seeing you at the many events of 44 Days!
Warmly,
Robin J. Dunn, Ph.D., Faculty Chair, Black Leadership Coalition
Courtney Gordon, Staff Chair, Black Leadership Coalition