Each February, the United States observes Black History Month, an annual celebration honoring African American history and heritage. Black History Month is an opportunity to learn about the adversities and triumphs of African Americans, as well as a reminder to celebrate Black history and confront racial injustice year-round.
Pacific’s Black History Month Planning Committee has planned many different programs for the Pacific community to celebrate this month, including renowned speakers, panel discussions, films and even a free health clinic and gospel concert led by the faculty and staff from the Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy in partnership with local health organizations.
“It is always exciting to present Black History Month events to the community,” said Randall Ogans, Black History Month Planning Committee co-chair. “It is a reflection of many months of hard work the planning committee has put in and our contribution to moving the university’s diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives forward.”
We’ve rounded up some events you won’t want to miss here, all of which are free and available to the entire Pacific community. You can check out the full list of programming here.
From a Yardie to a Yankee
In this one-woman play, actress, writer, comedian and producer Sardia Robinson tells her life’s story, from navigating life in Kingston, Jamaica to the struggles she faced after immigrating to Chicago. The performance will be held at the Long Theater on February 17 from 5-7:00 p.m.
Syracuse 8: Level the Playing Field
The Syracuse 8, student athletes and members of the Syracuse University football team, boycotted the 1970 football season to demand an end to racial discrimination within the football program. They will be in conversation with Pacific alumnus Andrew Thomas ‘90, at Faye Spanos Concert Hall on February 22 from 7-9:00 p.m.
Health Fair and Gospelfest
Pharmacy faculty and students will facilitate a comprehensive, service-based health fair providing free health screenings and COVID-19 vaccinations. The health fair will be held at Victory in Praise Church from 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m on February 26, followed by a gospel concert at the same location at 7:00 p.m. The concert will be headlined by critically acclaimed musicians Red Hands and Anita Wilson.
Christina Elmore: Black Stories Matter
Christina Elmore is a film, television and theater performer who now stars as Maria on BET’s Twenties. Elmore has also appeared in many other roles, including Condola on the HBO series, Insecure. She received her undergraduate degree from Harvard University and an MFA in acting from American Conservatory Theater. Elmore will speak about her experiences in entertainment industry at the Faye Spanos Concert Hall on February 28 from 7-9:00 p.m.