Celebrating Community: Black History Month
By Shelly Ortiz |
LOGAN — Utah State University’s Center for Community invites campus and community members to join in educational and celebratory events honoring Black History Month. These programs are open to all, offering opportunities to learn, share experiences and connect.
Utah State University has celebrated Black History since at least March 1971 with the presentation of Black Emphasis Week. 2026 marks the 100th year commemoration of the founding of Black History Month. This year’s theme, chosen by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, is “A Century of Black History Commemorations.”
Founders of Black History Month chose the month of February because it coincides with the birthdays of key figures within Black history, President Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas, to honor their legacies. Starting as a weeklong celebration in 1926, it became a federally designated month in 1986 to celebrate and honor Black Americans’ contributions to the United States of America and the world.
The Center for Community’s programming engages participants with a broad array of cultures, traditions and perspectives through educational activities and meaningful exchanges.
Event Highlights:
USU Black History Month Celebration
Wednesday, Feb, 11 | 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. | International Lounge, Taggart Student Center
This free celebration offers an engaging and educational experience highlighting the contributions of African Americans to music, cuisine, and culture through the Great Migration. Attendees will also learn about the significance of Black History Month and its journey to becoming a federally recognized observance.
Soul Food: 1940s a Night in Harlem
Friday, Feb. 20 | 6 to 8 p.m. | Evan N. Stevenson Ballroom, Taggart Student Center
An unforgettable evening honoring African American culture and history. This year’s theme, “1940’s Night in Harlem,” brings the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance to life through food, art and live performance. Dress to impress. Arrive early to explore cultural and educational displays before the program begins.
Tickets are $12 and available for purchase at https://www.usu.edu/community/cfcpaypal.
Visit community.usu.edu, Instagram: center_for_community, or contact community@usu.edu to learn more about Center for Community and its programming.
WRITER
Shelly Ortiz
Director
Center for Community
shelly.ortiz@usu.edu
CONTACT
Shelly Ortiz
Director
Center for Community
shelly.ortiz@usu.edu
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