Black History Month

This month, we are celebrating the contributions Black Americans have made to not only the United States, but also to the University of Michigan community. What began as “Negro History Week” in 1926, Black History Month represents a period in which we honor and celebrate the rich history, culture, and traditions of African and Black Americans. Expect Respect acknowledges that the University of Michigan, and our country as a whole, would not be where we are today without the countless contributions of Black and African Americans.

How much do you know about U-M’s Black History? Test your knowledge!

Here are some ‘fun facts’ about Black History at U-M:

  • Samuel Codes Watson was the first Black student to attend the University of Michigan. He enrolled in 1853.
  • The Black Student Union was founded in 1968. Thanks to their efforts, the Center for Afroamerican and African Studies, known today as the Department of Afroamerican and African Studies, was formed in 1970.
  • As of Fall 2016, Black students represent 4.94% of the University of Michigan population.

Many different programs on campus will be celebrating Black History Month. Multi Ethnic Student Affairs (MESA) will be honoring Black History Month with the launch of a film series. Their theme this year is “Shades of Blackness: A Snapshot of Black Culture Through the Years.”  We urge you to grab a friend and check out some of the events listed below.

  • 3rd Annual William Monroe Trotter Lecture: The Black Male Athlete. “Who is He and What is He to You?”
    • When: February 9th, 2017 at 6:30 pm
    • Where: Robertson Auditorium (located inside of the Ross Business School.)
      • 701 Tappan Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
    • Sponsors: Trotter Multicultural Center & Black Business Undergraduate Society (BBUS)
  • Black History Month Film Series: “Southside with You”
    • When: February 13th, 2017 at 6:00pm
    • Where: Hatcher Graduate Library Gallery, Room 100
      • 913 S. University Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109
    • Sponsor: Multi Ethnic Student Affairs
  • Black History Month Film Series: “Moonlight”
    • When: March 7th, 2017 at 7:00pm
    • Where: Hatcher Graduate Library Gallery, Room 100
      • 913 S. University Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48109
    • Sponsor: Multi Ethnic Student Affairs

 

Contributed By: Gabe Colman & Yolanda Marti, Expect Respect Program Assistants