Rice University observes events to commemorate Black History Month

Black History Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of heroes and innovators who have shaped America, and Rice University is taking part with a full program of events on campus.

Black History Month
“Celebrations of Black history seem more and more important of late,” said Catherine Clack, Rice’s associate dean of undergraduates and director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs. “Without that history and, more importantly, that exposure, no American’s education is complete. It also serves as a reminder that this country would not be wealthy or thriving without the creativity, work, courage and resistance of the Black Americans who proceeded us. I love how Rice pulls together to produce lively and engaging schedules of events for our heritage months.”

Rice’s Black History Month working group assembled a robust lineup of educational and celebratory activities for the university community to dive deeper into the experiences of Black Americans.

This year’s theme is “Black Resistance: Creation, Celebration, Determination,” exploring the many ways African Americans have resisted oppression in all forms. Planned events include the “Black Women Storytellers of Houston” exhibit at Fondren Library and Black History Month Weekly Hangouts each Thursday in February, in addition to book readings, workshops, movie presentations and more throughout the month.

The Black Student Association advocates for and supports the Black community at Rice, and it offers opportunities for all members of the university community to participate in outreach, social and cultural events all year. Rice’s Department of History offers courses in the history of Africa, the African diaspora and African American studies.