Celebrating Black History Month at NC State

NC State community,

Today begins Black History Month in the United States. I encourage you to join me in learning more about and celebrating the multitude of amazing contributions of Black Americans to our country, our state and NC State. 

Throughout this month and beyond, it is important that our community reflect on and acknowledge the achievements and the struggles of Black Americans. We must honor all who have accomplished so much for our society, and our university, including those who boldly challenged injustices and broke barriers created by institutionalized racism. We must support all who continue to do so today.

Beginning today, please take advantage of the many outstanding opportunities to participate in Black History Month throughout February. One highlight is Blacks in Wax Weekend on Feb. 13-14, a program by the African American Cultural Center, the GLBT Center and the Women’s Center that acknowledges and celebrates Black history at NC State and beyond. Also, don’t miss the Red, White and Black Virtual Tour with beloved former African American Cultural Center program director Toni Harris “Mama” Thorpe. This virtual tour will revisit campus locations that helped give voice to the Black experience at NC State. 

See a listing of more Black History Month events being held across NC State on the University Calendar. Read about some of the many accomplishments and contributions of African Americans who are part of NC State’s history by exploring this archive from NC State University Libraries. Learn more about the valuable programs offered by the African American Cultural Center, and about all four NC State community centers and all they provide to our community. Subscribe to the Office for Institutional Equity and Diversity’s Diversity Digest to keep up to date on year-round celebrations, learning opportunities and ways to connect.

While February brings a special focus, Black history and culture are, indeed, American history and culture, and should be recognized and celebrated every day. I hope all in our Wolfpack community will join in commemorating Black History Month over the next few weeks and strive to honor Black history, culture and accomplishments throughout the year.

Randy Woodson
Chancellor