CALENDAR ITEM: MU Hosts Dozens of Events to Celebrate 2011 Black History Month

February 3rd, 2011

WHAT: The University of Missouri is hosting events throughout February to celebrate Black History Month. This year’s theme, “Civil War and the Struggle for Black Self-Determination,” will honor the efforts of people of African descent to destroy slavery and inaugurate universal freedom in the United States. The national theme urges all Americans to study and reflect on the value of African-American contributions and sacrifices in a time of profound crisis in the nation.

“The 2011 Black History Month Committee has worked hard to create an exciting month to educate the campus and community about the historical and current contributions of Black people in U.S. and international contexts,” said Peggy Placier, co-chair of the MU Black History Month Committee. “This year we commemorate both the role of Black people in the U.S. Civil War that began 150 years ago and international struggles for Black self-determination that continue today. Our events integrate history with film, folklore, music, law, literature/poetry, health, and social sciences.”

WHO: The University of Missouri Black History Month Committee, several MU student organizations, and the campus community.

WHEN: Events throughout the month.

WHERE: MU campus and the Columbia community.

NOTE: To view a complete list of Black History Month events, visit: http://blackstudies.missouri.edu/feature-stories/2010/black-history-month/bhmcal.xlsx

Due to inclement weather, several events have been canceled. Check the website given for updated cancellations.