2008 Woodie Awards
Black History Month marked by films, food
By Brittany Cole
Rocket Contributor
Issue date: 2/17/06 Section: News
Many Slippery Rock University organizations are holding different events throughout the month of February to honor Black History Month, celebrated this month every year.
The celebration of Black History Month dates back to 1926, when Harvard scholar Carter G. Woodson, a son of former slaves, dedicated his life to ensure black history was accurately documented.
"I can't tell you all of the history of how it started, but I know it started to show the history of African Americans that aren't represented in history," Natasha Ricketts, president of Black Action Society said. "I think it's good to honor the month because this history is under-represented in high schools and colleges."
Through the first two weeks of February, SRU observed the month with several events, primarily organized by the Office of Intercultural Affairs. Organizations such as Black Action Society (BAS), University Program Board (UPB), and Phi Beta Sigma fraternity have also sponsored events. These events have included a showing of "The Gospel," the film "40 Acres and Mule: A Presentation about Reparations," and the film "The Color Purple."
Ricketts said BAS celebrates the month because it's important to bring the African American culture to campus. She feels all of the events are educational and allow students to enjoy the events but also learn that the month is important.
UPB sponsored, "Eat Your Heart Out" on Tuesday. This event included a chocolate fountain and Sticky Pics and a caricaturist. BAS sponsored "Black Jeopardy" held on Wednesday.
The French Club also wanted to honor the month and did just that during its Mardi Gras celebration last week.
During the celebration, the French Club brought "Afrika Yetu," an African band, to campus. The activities were not an official part of the month's events, but showed a part of African American culture.
"The events weren't official, but we can't pretend it's not related," said Thomas Daddesio, assistant professor of modern languages and cultures.
The celebration of Black History Month dates back to 1926, when Harvard scholar Carter G. Woodson, a son of former slaves, dedicated his life to ensure black history was accurately documented.
"I can't tell you all of the history of how it started, but I know it started to show the history of African Americans that aren't represented in history," Natasha Ricketts, president of Black Action Society said. "I think it's good to honor the month because this history is under-represented in high schools and colleges."
Through the first two weeks of February, SRU observed the month with several events, primarily organized by the Office of Intercultural Affairs. Organizations such as Black Action Society (BAS), University Program Board (UPB), and Phi Beta Sigma fraternity have also sponsored events. These events have included a showing of "The Gospel," the film "40 Acres and Mule: A Presentation about Reparations," and the film "The Color Purple."
Ricketts said BAS celebrates the month because it's important to bring the African American culture to campus. She feels all of the events are educational and allow students to enjoy the events but also learn that the month is important.
UPB sponsored, "Eat Your Heart Out" on Tuesday. This event included a chocolate fountain and Sticky Pics and a caricaturist. BAS sponsored "Black Jeopardy" held on Wednesday.
The French Club also wanted to honor the month and did just that during its Mardi Gras celebration last week.
During the celebration, the French Club brought "Afrika Yetu," an African band, to campus. The activities were not an official part of the month's events, but showed a part of African American culture.
"The events weren't official, but we can't pretend it's not related," said Thomas Daddesio, assistant professor of modern languages and cultures.
