Happy Black History Month!
Every year, we celebrate the legacy and the history of the Black community across the African diaspora. Here on campus, we host various events and celebrations beginning on February 1st.
This month I am especially reminded of Umoja, Swahili for unity.
In the spirit of unity, there are ample ways that Black Trojans find their communities on campus. From clubs and organizations to campus spaces, you can pursue your passions and make your mark within your first few days as a USC student.
Haven’t had a chance to visit campus and are looking for events, places, and spaces that are relevant to the Black student community on campus? Look no further, because the Center for Black Cultural and Student Affairs (CBCSA) and the Black Trojan Community have got you covered with a virtual tour of “BlackSC hotspots.”
Highlights of the virtual campus tour include Sommerville Place, a special interest residential floor dedicated to cultivating community and identity across the African diaspora. It also features organizations such as the Black Student Assembly (BSA) that fosters connections, creates leadership opportunities for students, and provides programming and services to the community. Every Monday night, BSA hosts a weekly meeting in which students can gather to play games and discuss news and events relevant to the Black community. Additionally, the tour also highlights McCarthy Quad, home to one of the signature events of Black History Month, the Black History Month Festival. This new event features step shows and other performances and highlights clubs and organizations.
Through events, organizations, and campus spaces we hope to create an environment in which every student can thrive while also honoring and acknowledging the Black student experience. This month and every month we empower and uplift the Black community on campus and beyond.
So again, in the spirit of Umoja (unity), we invite you to celebrate with us and check out Black History Month events happening all over campus.
Some events include the Black at USC: Mental Health and Tools to Thrive Edition talk which corresponds with this year’s national Black History Month theme: Black Health and Wellness, and the USC Fisher Art Museum will be hosting Films Reflecting Ourselves (F.R.O Fest) where the museum will be screening films by Black writers, producers, directors, and actors from USC. This annual festival provides a platform to tell and celebrate Black stories. This year’s theme is “Black Joy.”
To keep up to date with CBCSA events year round, follow their Instagram @usc_cbcsa
Written by:
Jonna German, Senior Assistant Director – USC Office of Undergraduate Admission