Black History Month celebrations kick off Feb. 3 at College of DuPage
The College of DuPage Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion presents "African Americans and the Vote," a series of events to celebrate Black History Month in February at the Glen Ellyn campus, 425 Fawell Blvd.
Black History Month activities begin at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 3, with an opening ceremony to kick off a month of teaching and learning, exploring the rise of black elected and appointed officials at the local and national levels, campaigns for equal rights legislation and the role of blacks in traditional and alternative political parties. Selected student speakers, COD Chamber Singers and members of the Afrikan Dance & Music Institute will teach through artistic expression. Free lunch will be provided.
• The annual African American Read-In is the nation's first and oldest event dedicated to diversity in literature. Guest readers are invited to share their personal stories or read selections from famous African American authors from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5, in the library's Room 3100.
• On Thursday, Feb. 6, Living Leadership presents the documentary film "Electoral Dysfunction" from 11 a.m. to noon and 2 to 3 p.m. in the Student Services Center's Room 1200. "Electoral Dysfunction" uses humor and wit to take an irreverent - but nonpartisan - look at voting in America. Officially endorsed by the National Council for the Social Studies, this video is hosted by Emmy-winning political humorist Mo Rocca, who takes a road trip to explore voting in America. Join us for the 36-minute film, followed by a debrief and discussion. There'll be popcorn, so bring your friends!
• The photo exhibit, "African Americans and The Vote," will be on display at noon Monday, Feb. 10, in the Student Resource Center. The exhibit explores past and present-day stories of African Americans' right to vote.
• The COD Black Student Alliance will host a meet and greet from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, in the Student Services Center, Room 3245. Engage with students and support their work of academic, cultural awareness, civic involvement and professionalism. Listen to students share their ideas to help build a legacy for future black students at College of DuPage.
• Historian, educator and community activist Dr. Frederick Douglas Dixon will explore the centennial of the 19th Amendment and the culmination of the women's suffrage movement from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb.13, in the Health and Science Center, Room 1234.
• On Thursday, Feb. 18, WDCB Station Manager Dan Bindert will present "History Through Music, This is My Country … It Was Just a Dream" from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Student Resource Center's Room 2032. A survey of musical reflections on the White House, America and self-determination through the musical genres of jazz, blues & soul culture. Light refreshments will be provided.
• On Wednesday, Feb. 19, Black Student Alliance will hold "The Voting Jubilee" from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Student Services Center's Atrium Room 2206. A student's perspective on the history of voting and how that interest has changed over the years.
• On Tuesday Feb. 25, the Black Student Alliance will present "The Best of Enemies" and a discussion from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Student Services Center Room 1200. BSA leads a review of clips and topical discussion from the film, "The Best of Enemies." The true story of the unlikely relationship between Ann Atwater, an outspoken civil rights activist, and C.P. Ellis, a local Ku Klux Klan leader. During the racially charged summer of 1971, Atwater and Ellis come together to co-chair a community summit on the desegregation of schools in Durham, N.C. The ensuing debate and battle soon lead to surprising revelations that change both of their lives forever.
• On Thursday, Feb. 27, the closing program will feature "A Taste of History Featuring Indika Reggae Band & Garifuna Flava" from noon to 2 p.m. in the cafeteria. The reception will include awards, food, artifacts and documents that celebrate the rich and diverse culture of Black History.
In addition, students are invited to submit an essay, a story, a piece of art or music, a poem or any other form of expression that reflects African American and their right to vote for the "Expressions" competition. The top three submittals will be featured at the Black History Month closing ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 27. Submittals are due by Thursday, Feb. 20. For rules, visit cod.edu/student_life/resources/csdi/black-history-month/.
For questions, contact David Swope, COD Manager of Student Diversity and Inclusion, at (630) 942-2136 or swoped28@cod.edu.