By Renique Quick, Community Director, Susquehanna Hall

It is common, to say the least, that as children we are taught history in our classrooms, and at times, in our homes. We have experienced historical journeys through Roman empires, world wars, and even the many fascinating luxuries that we enjoy today due to the inventive genius of those before us.

The reason that we have taken the time to learn where we came from is so that we can be more aware of where we are going and so that we hold on to an appreciation of those who have paved the paths before us. This is what the celebration of Black History is all about. We celebrate our ancestors' contribution to the land that we stand on. We honor the lives that were lost due to hatred, backbreaking efforts, and commitment to the struggle. We are sure to share these moments with our children so that they are aware that there are others who looked like them that may not have made it into their history books, but will hopefully make it into their minds and their hearts. We remember, lest we forget.

Dr. Carter G. Woodson, founder of the Journal of Negro History, set out to assure that we do remember. Dr. Woodson identified the second week in February as Negro History Week. He chose this week because both Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass share birthdays in this week. Both of these gentlemen played significant roles in the lives of Blacks throughout history.

Since 1926, Americans have acknowledged and celebrated Black History Month and this year we will continue to carry on the tradition right here at UMBC. We encourage you to take a moment to honor part of the history that has built the foundation for many of our lives. This year we are excited to offer a variety of opportunities for the entire UMBC community to learn more about Black History and to share in the celebration of culture showing "Pride in Our Past" and "Faith in Our Future."

Upcoming Black History Month Events
"Pride in Our Past, Faith in Our Future"

February 27 at 7 p.m.
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED
Speaker: Congressman Elijah Cummings

February 24 at 6 p.m.
Significance of Hairstyles in African Culture
PMC Community Room
Sponsor: ASA

February 26 at 1 p.m.
UMOJA Ceremony
Library, 7th Floor
Come and enjoy the sounds of the UMBC Jubilee Singers and hear speaker Dr. Jamie Washington, former assistant vice president for student affairs. as we wrap up our Black History Month Celebration!

February 26 at 7:30 p.m.
Movie: "Get on the Bus"
Chesapeake Hall Lobby
Sponsor: NPHC

February 27
African Culture Workshop: Food, Clothing, Music and Art
Location TBA
Sponsor: ASA

February 28 at 1 p.m.
Movie: "Their Eyes Were Watching God"
The Commons 2B10
Sponsor: Office of Diversity and Social Justice Initiatives
For more information contact Danette Gerald at ext. 53918

Coming Up:
April 9, Multi-Ethnic Job Fair
Sponsor: Career Development Center