February is the start of Black History Month, a time of the year to highlight African American stories and how they have impacted our country’s history. Clarke University’s Black Student Union has planned a surplus of events throughout the month to amplify and celebrate Black culture.
On February 4th, BSU hosted Vision Board night in the Fabiano Conference room at 7 pm, where students were invited to portray on paper what they wished their year to look like. This event was intended to serve as a time to reflect on the past year and set goals for the new one. BSU had a great turnout of students as they listened to music and designed their boards with complimentary pizza and refreshments. The active student involvement gave BSU club members a renewed excitement for the upcoming events planned for the rest of the month.
On February 11th, at 7 pm in the Fabiano Conference room a paint and sip event will take place. Art designed by African American artists will be displayed for painters to draw inspiration from as they express their creativity on canvas. The festivities do not end there, on February 18th, Family Feud night will be hosted at 6 pm in Jansen Hall. This year, the exciting game show will include BSU members competing against the staff, leading to an entertaining night. Although these events may not seem specifically geared towards highlighting Black History Month itself, BSU’s goal is to bring people together to participate in stress-free activities. They plan to create a sense of community within Clarke where students can enjoy each other’s company during a month that inspires unity and acceptance.
To close out Black History Month, BSU will organize a banquet on February 27th in the Atrium at 6 pm. The theme of this event is “Black Excellence of the Past and Future”. Black Student Union's president, Anisha Vondenkamp, will open the night with a speech welcoming guests and sharing information on Black History Month. Dinner will follow, leaving for yet another event of togetherness and celebration. After dinner, a special keynote speaker will share more on Black culture and history. The evening will also include a “walk of fame” where there will be a display of posters of known and unsung Black historic figures. The night will end with a speech from BSU vice president, Kennedi LeDuff, with concluding statements about the importance of Black History and closing out the month of celebrations.
BSU wishes to use these fun and exciting events to foster a community of inclusivity and encourage everyone from all cultures and backgrounds to celebrate with them. February looks to be a very promising month full of activities that are a call for celebration of Black History and create a greater sense of diversity and inclusion at Clarke. Students will be able to RSVP to this month’s events through The Source and reach out to any BSU member for further information.
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