The Office of Student Life hosted a Black History Month event in Loftin Student Center Feb. 5, marking San Antonio College’s first of several observances celebrating Black history in February.
Various organizations, including the Black Student Association, Big Mama’s Safe House and others handed out information, celebrating Black voices, artists, and history.
Approximately 9% of San Antonio College’s students are Black, according to the college’s Fact Book.
Carter G. Woodson, a scholar dedicated to celebrating Black culture and history, started the tradition of observing and celebrating Black history during the month of February in 1926. Woodson fervently believed Black people should be proud of their heritage and all Americans should understand the achievements of Black Americans. Woodson, now regarded as the “father of Black history,” started the tradition as Negro History Week, and the observance became Black History Month in the late 1960s, according to NPR.
“By taking the time to commemorate Black history, we instill a sense of pride in the present and inspire the innovation of the future,” Black Student Association President Jada Valdez said.
The Office of Student Life has myriad events planned to celebrate and observe Black History Month throughout February, including Tanesha Payne’s “Soulful Movement” workshop Feb. 21, and Welcome 2 Reality’s presentation on the “Impact of Hip-Hop on Behavior and Culture” Feb. 28.
To find out more about Black History Month events around campus, visit SAC’s events calendar page.
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