February is Black History Month

As a child of the historic civil rights era, I have always loved Black history.

In recent weeks, federal agencies and corporations have made headlines by removing Black History Month and other designated months from their calendars. This has sparked debates about the erasure of Black history and its broader implications. During times of uncertainty, I believe it’s important to reconnect with the purpose — the “why” — behind what we do.

At UW Tacoma, we celebrate Black History Month because it provides an opportunity to reflect on the achievements and resilience of Black and African Americans while recognizing how this history helps define our shared present.

The way history is written and recorded shapes memory, and it often reflects perspectives of those in power. This is why education is so vital. Education empowers students to learn and equips them with the tools to share their own stories and those in their communities.

We remain committed to keeping our institution a place where history can be openly explored, examined, and questioned in different ways. This work is essential in creating a fuller understanding of the past (and future!) — an understanding that includes all voices.

Here are some events to consider attending:

• February 20: We the People and the American Dream at the Washington State History Museum
  This evening of music, discussion, and reflection is presented in partnership with the Buffalo Soldiers Museum and will feature Dr. Luther Adams — Free Man of Color, an associate professor of ethnic, gender, and labor studies at UW Tacoma. The event, which is free with an RSVP, will explore civil rights and solidarity efforts from 1866 to 2025.
   
• February 26: An evening of film, food, and poetry in Carwein Auditorium in the Keystone Building (KEY 102):
  • 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. — Screening of Summer of Soul documentary by Questlove
  • 5:30 – 6 p.m. — Reception with appetizers and refreshments
  • 6 – 7 p.m. — Black History Month Poetry Slam featuring local artists and TWRT 270 Poetry Writing students, led by Professor Ever Jones
     
• All month long: Join events in Tacoma and Pierce County featuring art, education, and meaningful discussions. The Tacoma Public Library and Parks Tacoma will offer engaging programs celebrating Black history and culture. Now open, the Black Artists Exhibition at Tacoma Community College showcases the work of 23 talented South Sound artists.
   
• Anytime: Research and discover Black History Month 2025 through the UW Libraries Blog. Also, UW Professor Emeritus Quintard Taylor founded BlackPast.org, a website dedicated to “providing reliable information on the history of Black people across the globe.”