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Black History Month Activities Intended to Promote Awareness, Entertain Participants in February

2022 Black History Month posterA collaborative effort fuels Ferris State University’s offering of Black History Month activities during February. Students, faculty, staff and others are encouraged to explore this aspect of American history while learning about opportunities and enjoying experiences with others.

Office of Multicultural Student Services Director Danyelle Gregory said the first event, a “Do You Know Your Black History?” activity on Thursday, Feb. 3, is scheduled for Room 120 of the Interdisciplinary Resource Center, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

“We will use ‘Kahoot’ for this gathering, having made an effort to prepare questions that allow participants to take away a greater understanding of the Black experience in America,” Gregory said. “We want participants to understand that Black history is American history. There will be great prizes, like earbuds and other personal technology, for our prize-winners, but we believe everyone taking part will benefit from what they learn when those answers are offered.”

Thursday, Feb. 10, features a virtual presentation of “Good Hair,” a 2009 documentary starring Chris Rock which explores the notion of how African-Americans perceive their hair. Gregory said this comedy addresses a meaningful topic that should prompt an interesting discussion.

“We will have snack packs for those wishing to join us that evening,” Gregory said. “The link is available, and we look forward to hearing from students, whether this is a new experience or a chance to review a film they’ve enjoyed before.”

On Tuesday, Feb. 15, beginning at 7 p.m. will be ”So You Want to Be an Entrepreneur?” The event, offered via Zoom, offers insights from four entrepreneurs.

“There will be a raffle. Participants might receive the cocoa butter skincare products produced by one of our panelists or some other goods this group produces,” Gregory said. “We hope everyone leaves with a better idea of how they might use their own good idea to pursue an opportunity and embark on a path to success.”

Kendall College of Art and Design supports Black History Month programming by hosting “Am I Too African to be American? Am I Too American to be African?” The 2015 film from Nadia Sasso is the feature for a Zoom presentation Thursday, Feb. 17, beginning at 7 p.m.

“This film explores important issues for those who have recent presence or ties to Africa or those who want to consider their identity, on a deeper level,” Gregory said, “Our peers at KCAD will facilitate a discussion, following the showing of this film.”

The month’s schedule concludes with Entertainment Unlimited hosting a Black History Trivia event from 7 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18, from 7 to 8 p.m., with prizes available to participants.

Support for the schedule offered by the OMSS comes from the state of Michigan’s Talent and Economic Development, Talent Investment Agency, Workforce Development Agency and the King-Chavez-Parks Initiative. Those who may need accommodations to attend can contact the Office of Multicultural Student Services at (231) 591-2617 or by email.