LMU celebrates Black History Month during February with special events such as a kickoff event with Black registered student organizations, an African marketplace at Wellness Wednesday, an indoor climbing night, a Black Family Barbeque during LMU’s Family Weekend, and a film screening and panel discussion of “Kingfish: The Story of Kenny Washington” in partnership with the Los Angeles Rams.
Black History Month begins this Thursday with a celebration on Regents Terrace and will highlight many of the Black registered student organizations performing on Regents Terrace at noon followed by a special meal from LMU Dining including Cajun burgers and hot dogs. LMU Dining will also be serving special meals during Black History Month including jambalaya on Feb. 8, the food for Black Family BBQ during LMU Family Weekend, and special, student-submitted recipes for the Carnivàle celebration on Feb. 13 in collaboration with Chicano Latino Student Services and the Office for International Students and Scholars.
Many of LMU’s Black registered student organizations will also be participating in Day of Giving on Feb. 13 to raise support for their events and creating community for students, including:
- African Student Association – @lmu.asa
- Black Student Union – @bsulmu
- Brothers of Consciousness – @boc.lmu
- Caribbean and West Indian Students’ Association – @lmu_cwisa
- National Society of Black Engineers – @nsbelmu
- Sisters in Solidarity – @sisinsolidarity
This year the theme for Black History Month is based on Ubuntu, a traditional African concept meaning humanity towards others, is “I am because we are.” Kandis Jernigan, interim director for the Office of Black Student Services and Program Coordinator for The Learning Community, shares how the theme provides an opportunity to “celebrate the richness and diversity of Black history while fostering a sense of community and shared identity.” Jernigan said, “This is a powerful and meaningful concept that emphasizes interconnectedness and the sacred nature of our humanity. We have organized a host of events that aim to promote community, empowerment, and the encouragement of learning about the rich history, culture, and achievements of African descendants within the U.S. and throughout the Diaspora. Whether you join us for our panel discussion, artistic performances, or community gatherings we celebrate the diversity of experiences and our unity in love this February.”
Join the LMU community on the following dates as we celebrate Black History Month:
Thursday, Feb. 1, Regents Terrace (Rain Location: St. Rob’s Auditorium), noon
Black History Month Kickoff
Celebrate the first day of Black History Month with this kickoff event with music, a specialized cultural menu at the Lair, and great vibes.
Monday, Feb. 5, Malone 401 (The Hill), 4:30 p.m.
Be Your Own Bae Sound Bath and Meditation
Immerse yourself in a tranquil oasis of soothing vibrations at our upcoming Soundbath Event in partnership with LGBT Student Services, Yoga Studies, and FitWell. Join us as an expert leads students through a 60-minute session that intertwines yoga, meditation, and sound.
Tuesday, Feb. 6, St. Rob’s Auditorium, 6 p.m.
Black Student and Alumni Networking Mixer
RSVP here
Wednesday, Feb. 7, Regents Grass, 11 a.m.
African Market Place at Wellness Wednesday
Join Lion Wellness and the Office of Black Student Services on Wednesday, Feb. 7, at 11 a.m. on Regents Grass as we celebrate Black History Month with an African Marketplace featuring local Black-owned businesses, student vendors, the Black Faculty and Staff Alliance (BFSA) and Black-affiliated registered student organizations. Local Black-owned businesses will be selling food, apparel, upcycled clothing, and handmade items such as soaps, crystals jewelry, essential oils, and natural haircare products. The event will also host the Black student vendors, the LMU Black Faculty and Staff Alliance and Black-affiliated registered student organizations for a Student Involvement Fair.
Wednesday, Feb. 7, Sender One Playa Vista, 6 p.m.
Indoor Climbing Night
Outdoor and Adventure Recreation is partnering with LGBT Student Services and Office of Black Student Services to host an indoor climbing night down at Sender One Playa Vista in celebration of both Rainbow Week and Black History Month.
Thursday, Feb. 8, Malone 4th Floor (The Hill), 6 p.m.
Black Queer Student Forum
A discussion forum where the LGBTQIA+ community on campus will have the opportunity to share their experiences and thoughts about being queer on LMU’s campus. Students and faculty of all identities and orientations are encouraged to come and immerse themselves in an open and honest dialogue.
Friday, Feb. 9, St. Robert’s Hall, 6 p.m.
Pride Fest
Prepare for live entertainment, complimentary food, a private photo shoot, various activities, and, importantly, LGBTSS’ Queer Closet—an organization on campus that gives free gender-affirming clothes to LGBTQ+ students on campus (female and male-identifying clothing!). Pride Fest is open to the queer community and allies alike; everyone is invited to celebrate with us!
Saturday, Feb. 10, Burns Rec Center (West Court), 11:30 a.m.
Student vs. Staff Alumni Basketball Tournament
Get ready for an epic showdown on the basketball court as LMU students and alumni face off against staff in a thrilling and competitive basketball tournament. Join us for a fun-filled day of spirited competition and camaraderie, where the court becomes the ultimate battleground for a memorable showdown between the student and staff teams.
Monday, Feb. 12, The Living Room, 7 p.m.
Second Annual OUTspoken Open Mic Night and Student Art Showcase
Join MANE Entertainment, LGBT Student Services, the Office of Black Student Services, and The Learning Community for the 2nd annual OUTspoken Open Mic Night & Student Art Showcase! On Monday, February 12, share your voice and create community by highlighting Queer & Trans student talent. Refreshments will be served.
Tuesday, February 13, Malone 4th Floor (The Hill), Malone 1 p.m.
Sweet Potato Pie Social
Come to The Hill located on the 4th floor of Malone to indulge in delicious sweet potato pie. There will be delicious treats, music, and the opportunity to relax with your peers as exams approach. Join us to unwind as we eat a significant cultural dish as a community with our loved ones.
Saturday, Feb. 17, Mbongi Spot, noon
Black Family BBQ
Come join us for an afternoon of unity and joy at the Black Family BBQ.
Monday, Feb. 19, University Hall 1000, 4:30 p.m.
“Kingfish: The Story of Kenny Washington” Screening and Panel Discussion with the Rams
Join us for an exclusive film screening event in partnership with the Los Angeles Rams, LMU Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the Office of Black Student Services, and The Learning Community. More details to come.
Monday, Feb. 19, Malone 112, 6:30 p.m.
Let’s Have Church
Join us for a wonderful church service with Pastor Daveon Swan preaching and our gospel choir singing uplifting songs. It’s a time for community, inspiration, and joy.
Wednesday, Feb. 21, Malone 112, 5:30 p.m.
Navigating Our Identity Through The Diaspora: Who Are We?
Discover the essence of our identity in “Navigating Our Identity Through The Diaspora: Who Are We?” – an insightful event where we explore and celebrate the diverse threads that weave us together. Join us for a journey of self-discovery, fostering connections and understanding within our vibrant community.
Thursday, Feb. 22, Sacred Heart Chapel, 11 a.m.
Feed the Hungry with Campus Ministry
Friday, Feb. 23, Malone 112, 5:45 p.m.
GSLMU Mixer
Saturday, Feb. 24, Roski, 6 p.m.
African American Alumni Association Gala