In honor of Black History Month, we take the time to commemorate the historical contributions of African Americans and the living legacy of the Black community. To celebrate, Temple is hosting plenty of on-campus events open to all, including a film festival, open mic, speaker sessions and more! 
 

Belt it at the Black History Open Mic
Perform at IDEAL’s Black history-oriented open mic! Choose your setlist and take the stage to sing along to your favorite iconic Black and brown artists. Bring friends for a memorable Thursday night. 

When: Thursday, Feb. 8, 6–8 p.m.
Where: IDEAL center

Health-conscious history
Temple’s National Health Education Association, Eta Sigma Gamma Alpha Omicron Chapter, is hosting a series of programs to foster productive conversation and education regarding health disparities among African Americans in the United States. Focusing on topics ranging from maternal to mental health, Eta Sigma Gamma’s series aims to educate, connect and inspire.

Health Symposium
When: Friday, Feb. 2, 2–4 p.m.
Where: Charles Library, First Floor Event Space

Maternal Health Panel
When: Friday, Feb. 9, 2–4 p.m.
Where: Center for Anti-Racism, Mazur Hall, Room 140

Chronic Diseases Info Session
When: Friday, Feb. 16, 2–4 p.m.
Where: Center for Anti-Racism, Mazur Hall, Room 140

Sexual Health Panel
When: Friday, Feb. 23, 2–4 p.m.
Where: Charles Library, First Floor Event Space

Mental Health Panel
When: Friday, March. 1, 2–4 p.m.
Where: Charles Library, First Floor Event Space

Lights, camera, action! Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) Film Festival
Fanatical about film? This month, Temple’s Film in Color Organization will be hosting its third BIPOC Film Festival in collaboration with the university. The festival will feature work empowering the voices of Black and brown artists at Temple, followed by a Q&A session alongside the featured filmmakers. 

When: Thursday, Feb. 15, 5 p.m.
Where: Howard Gittis Student Center, The Reel

Survey says…
This month, channel your inner Steve Harvey and compete in Africology Family Feud. Assemble your team and test your knowledge of African American history. Now’s the time to get training… 

When: Thursday, Feb. 15, 4:30–6 p.m.
Where: 812 Gladfelter Hall

Unveiling Legacies: The 21st Annual Underground Railroad Black History Conference
This February marks the 21st Annual Underground Railroad Black History Conference! Take the time to widen your understanding of Black history from keynote speaker M. Alvin Petitt, artist and sculptor of Higher Power Calling: Harriet Tubman in Philadelphia.

When: Wednesday, Feb. 21, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Where: 812 Gladfelter Hall

Learning from literature with Deborah G. Plant
Discussing the past and present, author Deborah G. Plant will be visiting Temple to discuss her novel, Of Greed and Glory. The book highlights how slavery persists in the United States to this day, posing extensive challenges to the livelihood of Black individuals and beyond. Educating is the first step to change, so come prepared to take notes!

When: Thursday, Feb. 22, 2 p.m.
Where: Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection, Sullivan Hall

Cultural Canvases: The Black Art Expo
Calling all artists and art enthusiasts! Dedicate your day to discovering the work of Black creators. From intricate sculptures to visionary paintings, the expo is sure to inspire!

When: Thursday, Feb. 22 and Friday, Feb. 23
Where: 812 Gladfelter Hall

Mix it up at the Black Graduate Student Mixer
In honor of Black History Month, Temple’s graduate student program is hosting a Black Graduate Student Mixer! The event will provide graduate students across all schools and colleges the chance to meet with one another, network and connect through their graduate student experiences. 

When: Wednesday, Feb. 28, 4–5:30 p.m.
Where: Charles Library, 1st floor event space

 - Avery Bumsted, Class of 2025