UMass Global community encouraged to view Black History Month as an invitation for year-long learning

IRVINE, Calif. (Feb. 7, 2023) – Black History Month is an annual reminder that Black culture is an indelible part of the American story. Chancellor David Andrews and the Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI) are calling upon the UMass Global community to center Black, African American, Afro-Latinx, Afro-Caribbean, and other voices across the African diaspora. One way this can be accomplished is by going beyond the annual recognition of Black History Month and highlighting the advocacy that emerges from Black and historically-marginalized communities throughout the entire year.

“Black History Month reminds us of both progressions and regressions in the struggle for equity,” Andrews said. “As one of the first white students to attend the previously segregated Booker T. Washington High School in Pensacola, Florida, I am reminded of the incredible contributions to equity and inclusion of the school’s namesake but am sadly reminded that his many accomplishments took place more than 100 years ago."

“There is so much more to be done,” Andrews continued. “While we take this time to celebrate Black History Month, we must acknowledge one another’s contributions and avoid complacency for the work ahead."

In this spirit of facilitating year-round learning, OEI has identified several resources focused on Black history and culture. A few selections are listed here:

•  Black History Month (Library of Congress, Smithsonian Institution, et al)

•  “A hidden identity: 10 famous Afro-Latinos to celebrate during Black History Month” (Noticiero Movil)

• Black History Month Virtual Festival (The Association for the Study of African American Life and History)

• “30 films that celebrate Black joy and resilience” (Popsugar)

• Black History Month (Academy of American Poets)

Also, by being mindful of how the weight of history and current events can affect other people around us, we can foster a more inclusive community.

“In this year alone, we have navigated the suffering surrounding mass shootings in our communities, publicized confrontations for human rights, social injustice, inhumane loss of life, and global tragedies, said Dr. Jálin B. Johnson, vice chancellor of equity and inclusion and senior diversity officer.

“It is important that as we advocate for equity, we also allow space for acknowledging trauma, the lived experiences of others, and the need for healing,” Johnson continued. “Equally as important, as I have reminded myself and others throughout the years, we must give ourselves grace.”

There are many highly effective actions people can take to assist in the pursuit of equity. OEI has taken a cue from artist Devon Blow, who uses the handle @DevThePineapple on Instagram to present her work, which includes a graphic featuring ideas influencing OEI’s advice.

Recommendations:

• Listening to Black people.

• Reading books by Black authors.

• Educating yourself on cultural humility, dismantling white supremacy and inclusivity.

• Buying from Black-owned businesses.

• Donating to organizations that support promoting Black health, joy, education, civil rights, and community development.

• Engaging in learning focused on anti-racism and racial equity.

OEI has also curated a comprehensive list of resources including links to more learning materials, mental health care providers, and information on charitable giving can be accessed by scanning the provided QR code with your smartphone’s camera function.

OEI’s Advocating for Equity project offers another opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to promote cultural awareness and inclusivity throughout UMass Global. Project objectives include - but are not limited to - honoring people who promote inclusiveness, creating supportive spaces, building support and wellness tools, unlearning unhelpful notions, and listening to and learning from stories shared among members of the university community.