Parkland College hosting series of events for Black History Month

Black History Month kicks off in February, and to celebrate, Parkland College is hosting a series of events. This years theme is: “Protest: Tools of the Powerless,” and will includes planetarium shows, lectures, presentations, a soul food luncheon, and more. 

Feb. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24
Skywatchers of Africa Planetarium Show
8 p.m., Staerkel Planetarium

This show, to run every Friday and Saturday during February, is a celebration of diverse African cultures and their explanations of the yearly cycles of the heavens. Tickets are $6 for adults and $5 for students, seniors and kids.

Feb. 5
“Black Activism through the Years” by Evelyn Reynolds
Noon–1 p.m., U140

Black activist movements will be explored, from Nat Turner to the current Black Lives Matter movement.

Feb. 6
“Protest: Power of the Powerless” by Dr. Joe Walwik
Noon–1 p.m., U140

The presentation will explore how groups of oppressed peoples from around the world have used protest as a way to make their voices heard.

Feb. 7
Black Student Success Project: Relationships I
1–2 p.m., U140

This in-depth discussion of romantic relationships in the African-American community is a popular one with students.

Feb. 8
“Hidden Features: Unknown Heroes” by Dr. Marietta Turner
Noon–1 p.m., U140

The presentation will highlight African Americans who have made significant contributions to society in a variety of areas but who have not received much acclaim for their contributions.

Feb. 9
Health Services Fair
11 a.m.–1 p.m., Student Union atrium

Parkland College’s Health Professions department and Wellness Center coordinator will conduct a health fair for students, staff and the community. Enjoy free massages and health assessment tests as well as other complementary items.

Feb. 12
“Affirmative Action: Will it Survive?” by Dr. Willie Fowler
10–11 a.m., U140

Take a critical look at the current policy of affirmative action and whether it will still benefit people of color in the near future.

Feb. 13
“Cornerstone: Celebrating Three Black Writers” by Aaron Geiger
Noon–1 p.m., U140

This talk focuses on a “trifecta” of African-American writers: James Baldwin, Ethel Morgan and Tyehimba Jess and their most notable works highlighting life in America for the African American.

Feb. 15
Together We Achieve (TWA) Presentation
Noon–1 p.m., U140

Parkland’s student group TWA will present on topics related to be a black male in our country.

Feb. 16
Soul Food Luncheon
11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., Student Union atrium

Sample an array of culturally prepared foods including baked or fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, green beans, rolls and cookies. Water will be provided as well. The luncheon will be catered by Caribbean Grill. The price will be $10.

Feb. 20
“No Leadbelly, No Beatles” by Hilary Valentine
Noon–1 p.m., U140

Huddie Ledbetter, better known as Leadbelly, was an African American folk/blues musician who influenced many notable acts including the Beatles. Find out how and why he has been forgotten.

Feb. 21
“Exploring the World of Black Fraternities and Sororities” by Dr. Willie Fowler
11 a.m.–noon, U140

Should community college students be allowed to join Greek organizations? This presentation will highlight black Greek organizations and their future.

Black Student Success Project: Relationships II
1–2 p.m., U140

This in-depth discussion of romantic relationships in the African-American community is a popular one with students.