The Concord

Issue date: 2/3/10 Section: News

Media Credit: Dr. Melanie Prejean Sullivan

By Timalyn Baker

Each year in February, Bellarmine University observes Black History Month. Whether it be something minuscule or something huge, certain members of the faculty, along with the office of Multicultural Affairs, make sure that Bellarmine does its part in observing the month. The observance of such a month is important to a University such as Bellarmine because of the diversity that is welcome here. Most people when they think of diversity think of the color of a person's skin and look around Bellarmine and think to themselves, "Well there isn't too much of that here". But diversity means so much more, such as cultural background and heritage.

The lack of knowledge about African American history on campus is sad. "It shows a need for the month", says Ryan Simpson, director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs. "We hold events with good speakers but only about ten students will show up". The Office of Multicultural Affairs isn't only for the African Americans on campus, and it isn't just for the minorities on campus. It is for everyone, to help them expand their horizons and learn about cultures other than their own. So that everyone on campus will be open to diversity.

Black History month is a time period focused specifically on African Americans but the events being held on campus aren't only for the African Americans students. They are open for all people on Bellarmine's campus to come and learn about the history of African Americans, which is also a major part of American history. Sophomore track athlete, Will Saucer says, "Observing Black History Month at Bellarmine is important because it is a big part of American history. A lot of people still don't realize how much of an impact black people have had on American culture".

One of the goals of Dr. Carter Woodson, the founder of what we now know to be Black History month, was to simply educate on the heritage of African Americans and the contributions that they've made to society. "It's something that should be celebrated all year round, not just for a month", says Ryan Simpson. "I would really like to urge all of the students on campus to come out to the events that we're having on campus this month. Most all of them are free of cost and open to the public".

So be open to diversity and expand your own horizons. Check out the calendar of events that are being held for Black History month, and come out and learn about African American history which is also a part of your American history.

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