Black History Month

Black History Month is observed annually on February 1st - March 1st in the United States.

Black History Month is a dedicated occasion for the Office of Intercultural Development to honor, acknowledge, and bring attention to the numerous contributions, accomplishments, and tenacity of Black people throughout history. Through participating in significant events, conversations, and activities this month, we hope to promote a better awareness of Black history, culture, and the continuous fight for social justice. We hope to encourage inclusivity, respect, and a shared commitment to building a more diverse and equitable community via celebration and education.

Calendar of Events

Kwanzaa Vendor Fair and Celebration Dinner

The Importance of Supporting Black-owned businesses and service providers is not just an act of economic empowerment but also a way to uplift the contributions, creativity, and resilience of the Black community.

Special Speaker Philip Jefferson

Dr. Philip N. Jefferson is an American economist who, in May 2023, was named vice chair of the Federal Reserve Board (FRB). This is the board’s second-highest position and makes Jefferson a powerful voice in determining U.S. economic policy. The event is on February 4th, at 7:30 in Oechsle 224.

What is Black Identity?

Join us for a powerful conversation on the realities of Black identity, resilience, and community in college. Let's share experiences, uplift voices, and celebrate what it truly means to be Black on campus. The event is on Friday, February 7th at 6:00pm in Portlock.

Dr. King March

Celebrate the life and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in a march around campus on Saturday, February 8th from 1:30pm, starting at Portlock.

Black Hair Care sponsored by NIA Sisterhood

Join us for an intimate and empowering hair care workshop designed specifically for women of color! Learn essential techniques for natural hair care and maintenance from your fellow Lafayette students hair stylist who understand the unique beauty and challenges of textured hair. This event is on Sunday, February 9th at 12:00pm in Portlock.

A Taste of SOUL

Welcome to the first Taste of Soul, a celebration of the rich culinary traditions of the Black diaspora! Join us as we highlight soul food, Caribbean cuisine, and African dishes, reflecting the diverse cultures and countries that have shaped African American heritage. This event is on Monday, February 10th at 4:00pm in the Farinon Atrium.

"Let me Put You on” sponsored by BOL

Come out to an engaging discussion about love and learn the do's and don'ts about relationships, situationships, et cetera! Hosted by your favorite Brothers of Lafayette & NIA: Sisterhood. This event will be on Thursday, February 13th at 4:30pm in the Leopard's Lair.

Annual Black Arts Festival

ABC's Black Arts Festival is an annual showcase for our community to display their talents and passions to the campus. The night is dedicated to celebrating the art and the people behind them. The event will be on Saturday, February 15th at 7:00pm in the Leopard's Lair.

Lafayette & Lehigh NSBE Game Night

The Lafayette College NSBE Chapter will be collaborating with the Lehigh NSBE Chapter to host a fun game night that will allow for both chapters to be introduced to one another, as POC Engineers. There will be video, board, card games and snacks! This event will be on Sunday, February 16th at 4:30 at Lehigh University.

Black, Christian & Gay

Join us for an open and meaningful dialogue exploring the intersections of faith, sexuality, and identity within the Black community. This event aims to foster understanding, support, and inclusivity for those navigating these complex spaces. This event will be on Monday February 17th at 6:00pm in the Leopard's Lair

Love Nwantiti (Dating Show)

Get ready for a night of fun, romance, and friendly competition! Lafayette's ​​African and Caribbean Students Association and Lehigh's ​​African Student Association ​will be teaming up to host a thrilling game show where love is in the air and surprises are around every corner. This event will be on Thursday, February 20th at 7:00pm at Lehigh.

Brothers of Lafayette Monthly Barbershop

The Barbershop is an opportunity for Black men on campus to gather, enjoy dynamic dialogue, dinner and receive free haircuts. This event will be on Sunday, February 23rd at 2:00PM in Portlock.

Black History Month Speaker: Angelina Darrisaw C- Suite Coach

Join us for an inspiring Black History Month event featuring Angelina Darrisaw, a dynamic leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for equity and empowerment. As the founder and CEO of C-Suite Coach, Angelina’s work focuses on creating pathways for diverse talent to thrive in professional spaces. This event will be on February 24h at 7:00pm in Kirby 104.

Dominican Independence Day- Mask Making

Carnival Season is famous in the Caribbean where countries celebrate their freedom. Join members of Bohio as we honor the carnival tradition of mask making with a discussion on the history and traditions surrounding carnivals as well as the importance of the masks themselves. This event will be on Thursday, February 27th at 6:00pm in Portlock.

UMOJA Gala

Close out Black History Month in style at the Umoja Gala! Dress to the nines and join us in celebrating the past, present, and future of Black excellence, unity, and culture. This event will be on Friday, February 28th at 8:00pm. Location coming soon.