Manhattan College to Commemorate Black History Month

Eight events are scheduled to take place during February.

Manhattan College will host eightPortrait photo of Misty Copeland events during Black History Month. Here are the details:

Monday, February 1, 6 p.m.
The virtual kickoff event will feature the inaugural Black Excellence Awards and a keynote from Misty Copeland, the first African-American female principal dancer with the prestigious American Ballet Theatre. Join the event here, co-hosted by the Black Student Union and Jaspers Dancers and co-sponsored by the office of Student Engagement and the Multicultural Center.

Wednesday, February 17, Noon
This Tiny Talk will be dedicated to our students of color and allies. The Multicultural Center will host a guest speaker who will present for 15 minutes or less. A vibrant discussion on the topic will follow.

Wednesday, February 17, 7 p.m.
The Judith Plaskow Lecture of Women and Religion will be presented by M. Shawn Copeland, Ph.D., professor emerita of theology at Boston College. The talk is entitled “Who Is My Neighbor?: Race, Culture, and American Life.” 

This lecture interprets the 'Parable of the Good Samaritan' as told by Jesus of Nazareth and recorded in the Christian Scriptures in order to probe its usefulness for contemporary living. Civility, decency, respect, along with basic democratic values seem to be under assault around the globe. Perhaps critical consideration of the basic command – to love one's neighbor as oneself – might help us recover "the better angels of our nature." Join the event here.

Friday, February 19, 12:30 p.m.
Join us for a fun-filled afternoon of trivia on Black history. Win prizes and enjoy the company of your fellow Jaspers. Here is a hint: all of the answers for the trivia questions will be on our social media and at our events! Join the event here or stop by the Multicultural Center (capacity is limited). 

Tuesday, February 23, 6 p.m.
The Alternative Narrative Art Show is a showcase of Black artists that illuminates the different ways that people of color represent themselves in the art world. The selected artists will be featured on banners posted around campus, culminating in a walk-through gallery show on the 4th floor of the Student Commons. Each artist will display additional work from their collection. The event is co-sponsored by the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.

Wednesday, February 24, Noon
During Intersectionality week, women who identify as Black talk about their experiences in the world of activism. The HERStory event showcases women who have founded nonprofits for social justice and organized marches. All have been the catalyst for change. Join the event here.

Friday, February 26, TBD
The office of Student Engagement is hosting an inaugural Shoe Expo. The event will have a panel, sneakers on display and giveaways, with a focus on African-American art and culture.

Saturday, February 27, 9 a.m.
The Multicultural Center, in coordination with the Black History Month planning committee and the Black Student Union, will host “Beyond the Green Gates,” a virtual symposium focused on goal setting and advancing students of color. There will be workshops, panel discussions and strategy sessions. RSVP to save your spot

By Pete McHugh