ECC's Black History Month to focus on themes of diversity, representation

Elgin Community College's celebration of Black History Month brings the themes of diversity, representation, and family directly to the community with a line-up of virtual presentations, discussions, and interactive events.

Events include a look at mental health in the Black community, a historical look at racism in the Midwest, a talent showcase, a discussion on ball culture and the black community, and a student-led town hall on race and justice. The celebration ends with a virtual "Family Picnic and Game Night."

The 2021 Black History Month line-up:

• "Mental Health in the Black Community, a Retrospective" at 3 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 2. A discussion on four different mental health topics that have affected the black community from the 1700s until now. This discussion will look at and discuss similarities and trends in mental health issues talk about ways to help the black community move forward in wellness. Watch on Zoom.

• "A Crucial Conversation About Race and Justice: A Student-Led Town Hall" at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 11. A student-led town hall about the role of race and its intersection with justice in our society. Watch on Zoom.

• "A Discussion on Ball Culture" with Dr. Marlon Bailey at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18. Bailey, a professor at Arizona State University, will discuss the impact of ball culture on the African American and LGBTQ+ communities. Watch on Zoom.

• "This is Black America" virtual talent showcase at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19. ECC students will showcase their talents in the arts with a social justice, black family, black patriotism, or black history theme. Hosted by Christopher D. Sims, nationally known poet and performance artist. Watch on Zoom.

• "Black Lives Matter: A Historical Perspective," sponsored by MAGIC, at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25. Gain insight into the systemic racism Black families found (and still find today) in the Midwest. Learn how to act to help Black families feel welcome and supported in the community. Watch on Zoom.

• Online Family Picnic and Game Night at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 26. In the spirit of the Kwanzaa principles Umoja (Unity) and Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), celebrate the closing of Black History Month with a night of fun and fellowship with games and food from local restaurants. Join in on Zoom.

Get the full event schedule at elgin.edu/BHM.

For more information, contact the Office of Student Life at (847) 214-7079. All events are free and open to the public.