2016 is a big year for Black History Month — not just at Drexel, but around the world. Ninety years ago, in 1926, Black History Month began as “Negro History Week,” started by African American historian and scholar Carter G. Woodson. Forty years ago, in 1976, President Gerald Ford expanded it to its current form as Black History Month just in time for America’s bicentennial. February was designated as Black History Month because it is the month in which Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln were born. 

For all 29 days of February this year — yes, all 29 — Drexel will observe and celebrate Black History Month. Events will be held on campus to reflect on the history and achievements of the black community, as sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences, the Lindy Center for Civic Engagement and Student Center for Inclusion and Culture (SCIC).

In the spirit of the month, here are some of the events and exhibits Drexel is hosting:

• Delta Week: Crimson Peak (Reaching Further Heights) —Jan. 23 – 29, events will occur at multiple locations

Help Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated ascend to the crimson peak. The goal of this week is to dissect topics surrounding the mental and physical well-being as well as the economic advancement of blacks both nationally and internationally. This will highlight how the past has shaped our current existence, and how the present will help us reach our peak in combating these issues.

For more information contact Ephidst1913@gmail.com. Sponsored by Epsilon Phi Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

• Love in the Black Community Part 2 — Feb. 4, 6 pm, Dornsife Center for Neighborhood Partnerships

To continue the precedent set by last year's event, the Drexel Black Graduate Student Union offers the next level in highlighting important issues. “Part 2 of Love in the Black Community” focuses on the necessity of group uplift as opposed to individual advancement. This session includes an open discussion between panelists and attendees as we highlight the movement toward a holistic view of love in our community.

Sponsored by DBGSU.

• Black Lives Matter Panel Discussion: The Conversation Continues — Feb. 5, 12:00 –1:30 p.m, MacAlister Hall, Room 2019/2020

Join Drexel’s Black Faculty & Professional Staff Association (BFPSA) as we host a discussion about the Black Lives Matter Movement and its relation to contemporary civil rights movements. This panel will feature Drexel faculty members Andre Carrington, PhD; Rose Corrigan, PhD; and Kevin Woodson; PhD. Light lunch will be provided. 

To RSVP, please email BFPSA@drexel.edu. RSVP is not mandatory.

• The Soul Tape — Feb. 15–19, location TBA

Join Drexel African American Cultural Alliance (DAACA) for “The Soul Tape.” This event series will dissect popular songs and discuss how the lyrics and themes relate to body image, relationship dynamics, rape culture and other social issues.

For more information email UG.DAACA@gmail.com. Sponsored by Drexel’s African American Cultural Alliance.

• One Book One Philadelphia at Drexel University:  Exploring the History and Heartache of the Civil War — Feb. 17, 4:30–6 pm, Behrakis Grand Hall

A panel of Drexel faculty will discuss the historical context and literary significance of this year's selections. Topics will include: the history, causes and ramifications of American slavery, the American Civil War, and reconstruction. In addition, the pre-panel reception will include educational experiences of American culture from that era (music, re-enactors and exhibits). The reception will take place from 4:30–5 p.m., and the panel discussion will occur from 5–6 p.m.

• My Brothers Keeper: African and African American Relations — Feb. 17, 5:30 pm, MacAlister Hall, Room 2019/20

Join Drexel’s African Student Association for a panel discussion on relationships between African and African-Americans. This event will also expand on sexuality and mental health in both communities.

Sponsored by Drexel’s African Student Association.

• The Remix — Feb. 18, 5:30 –7 p.m., Dornsife Center for Neighborhood Partnerships

The Remix is a forum that brings together students, faculty, staff and surrounding community members to talk about pertinent issues and create solutions. This edition of the Remix will focus on the impact of the media on the self-esteem of people of color.

Sponsored by DBGSU and the Dornsife Center.

• Black History Month Luncheon — Feb. 26, 12–2 pm, Behrakis Grand Hall

All Drexel faculty, staff, students and community members are invited to join the Black Faculty & Professional Staff Association to celebrate Black History Month. The event will feature community vendors, artistic expressions and lunch. Attendees are encouraged to wear African attire.

Sponsored by the Black Faculty & Professional Staff Association.

• Black Organizations Open House — Feb. 29

This event will be a collaborative event to increase awareness/membership of black student orgs on campus. Also meant to foster new and better relationships with Drexel students and minority faculty and staff, the event will be formatted like Drexel's student activities fairs and will include several stations, food and entertainment.

For more information email UG.DAACA@gmail.com. Sponsored by the Drexel African American Cultural Alliance.