Events planned for Black History Month

African American traditions, a community service trip to Mel Trotter Ministries and a film screening will be part of Black History Month celebrations in February. 

Sponsored by Grand Valley’s Office of Multicultural Affairs, all events are free and open to the public.

Some events are highlighted below. See a complete schedule at www.gvsu.edu/oma.

"Grand Rapids and Social Activism in Today's Political Climate: Connecting the Broader Movement to the Local Experiment," February 1, noon-1:15 p.m.

Louis Moore, associate professor of history at Grand Valley, will examine how the national movement and actions toward social justice impacts the local experience of those living in West Michigan. 

"Remaking History: The Civil Rights Movement in the Age of Trump," February 2, 4-5:15 p.m. 

Hasan Kwame Jeffries, associate professor of history at Ohio State University, will discuss the potential pitfalls and promises of grass roots activism that address racial and economic inequality in the "Age of Trump."

"History and Culture of Historically Black Colleges and Universities," February 8, 6-8:30 p.m. 

Donald Mitchell, Jr., assistant professor of higher education at Grand Valley, will lead an interactive discussion about HBCUs. 

A Taste of Soul, February 17, noon-1 p.m.

Event participants will taste-test and learn about traditional African American soul food.

"The Fannie Louie Hamer Story" (Play), February 28, 4-5 p.m.

The performance will feature video and songs to raise awareness about Civil Rights icon Fannie Louie Hamer, whose activism led to the passage of the Voter's Rights Act of 1965.