Westfield—Westfield State University will celebrate Black His/Herstory Month throughout the months of February with multiple month-long events such as discussions, art exhibits, performances, movie nights, and luncheons.
Since 1974, Westfield State University has held Black History Month events to inform the campus community and the community of Westfield about the continuing importance of representation for African American history, culture, and traditions. In 2017, the event’s name was changed to Black His/Herstory Month to emphasize the importance of women within the black community. All the events are presented and organized by a committee of faculty, staff, and students. The events are sponsored by the Westfield State University Office of Diversity and Inclusion.
This year’s theme is “A Dedication to Black Performing Arts,” drawing attention to the scores of African American performing artists. The theme highlights minorities in industries such as entertainment, literature, and art
All programs are free and open to the public. The events are listed below.
Westfield State University Black His/Herstory Month Events:
February 5, 12:15–1:15 p.m., Tekoa Room, Tim & Jeanne’s Dining Commons
Lunch & Learn: Local artists share experiences in the entertainment business (refreshments provided)
February 6, 6–7:15 p.m. Dower 134
African-American Spirituals: Community Sing, featuring Guest Speaker Dr. Felicia Barber
February 8, 8 p.m., Owls Nest (Room 18), Ely Campus Center
Comedy Night featuring Kiry Shabazz
February 11, 5:30 p.m., Scanlon Banquet Hall
Sankofa Faculty and Staff of Color Appreciation Dinner
February 20, 6 p.m., University Hall
Greek Life and Black History
February 26, 8 p.m., Owls Nest (Room 18), Ely Campus Center
Film Screening of “Black Klansman” (refreshments provided)
February 28, 7 p.m. Owls Nest (Room 18), Ely Campus Center
Westfield State University’s Black Girls Rock Award Ceremony (refreshments provided)
For more information about Black His/Herstory Month and the events listed, visit: www.westfield.ma.edu/bhm
Founded in 1839 by Horace Mann, Westfield State University is an education leader committed to providing every generation of students with a learning experience built on its founding principle as the first public co-educational college in America to offer an education without barrier to race, gender or economic status. This spirit of innovative thinking and social responsibility is forged in a curriculum of liberal arts and professional studies that creates a vital community of engaged learners who become confident, capable individuals prepared for leadership and service to society.
For more information on Westfield State University, visit us at www.westfield.ma.edu, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/westfieldstate, or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WestfieldStateUniversity.
