WSU to celebrate Black culture, contributions during Black History Month

OGDEN, Utah — In celebration of Black History Month, Weber State University will host several events throughout February to highlight the contributions, experiences and culture of Black and African Americans.

Black History Month is a time to reflect on the impact Black individuals have had on every facet of society, said Maryan Shale, program manager at Weber State’s Black Cultural Center. 

“As February unfolds, we honor and celebrate the rich tapestry of African American history, resilience and contributions that have shaped our nation,” she said. “This month is an opportunity to recognize the powerful stories and achievements that often go unacknowledged. Let us come together for a month filled with engaging events, discussions and reflections that highlight the invaluable legacy of Black history.”

The schedule includes the following events: 

Feb. 5
Represent your country with African heritage attire and visit the Black Cultural Center, located in the Shepherd Union Room 231, to have your picture taken for the Center for Belonging & Cultural Engagement’s Instagram, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Feb. 7
Listen to a panel discussion with the Divine Nine, a group of historically Black fraternities and sororities, 5 p.m. in the Shepherd Union Wildcat Theater. Hear from members of each fraternity and sorority in the Divine Nine discuss why they joined, what their organizations represent and what they do.

Feb. 13
Write a love letter with what you like about Black history or yourself, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Black Cultural Center. 

Watch the film Love & Basketball, a romantic sports drama written and directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, 4 p.m. in the Black Cultural Center. This classic film addresses gender norms and perceptions of Black women, while also portraying a touching and realistic love story. 

Feb. 20
Take a field trip to Adobe’s campus in Lehi, Utah, to join their Black History Month celebration. To register, visit the Black Cultural Center or email maryanshale@weber.edu or brandonflores@weber.edu by Feb. 16.

Feb. 21
Enjoy an African dance performance set to Afrobeat music, 3 p.m. in the Shepherd Union Atrium.

Hear a discussion on “Shades of Unity: Celebrating the Diversity within Black Identity,” 4–6 p.m. in the Shepherd Union Ballrooms. A student panel will talk about their lived experiences with the hopes of sharing diverse perspectives, fostering understanding and celebrating the richness of the many Black identities. 

Feb. 23
Get a free haircut from a Black-owned barbershop, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Shepherd Union Atrium. Erin Gaston, an entrepreneur and Ogden business owner, is working to change the way Black hair is perceived. In addition to offering free haircuts to the campus community, students can also ask Gaston about barber apprenticeship opportunities. 

Watch an African dance performance from Bomba Marilé, an Afro Puerto Rican music and dance group, 3–3:30 p.m. in the Shepherd Union Atrium.

Author:

Marketing & Communications staff

Contact:

Rachel Badali, news coordinator
801-626-7362, rachelbadali@weber.edu