Black History Month

In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month, calling upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” Black History Month has evolved to honor the contributions and legacy of Black people across U.S. history and society — from activists and civil rights pioneers such as Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Marcus Garvey, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X , A. Philip Randolph and Rosa Parks to leaders in industry, politics, science, culture and more.

Events

  • The 38th Martin Luther King, Jr. March and Celebration 

    St. Mary's University participate in the Martin Luther King Jr. walk

    January 20, 2025
    9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

    March line-up begins at 10 a.m.
    Kickoff takes place 11 a.m. at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy

    The park celebration will include:

    • A main stage with multicultural performances
    • A health and wellness area
    • A youth area
    • Food and merchandise vendors
    • Information booths

    St. Mary’s will provide transportation from campus to the march site.

    Event Information

    For more information contact the Office of Inclusive Excellence

  • Black and Catholic: Leadership Lessons from the Saintly Six

    Empowering Voices: Leadership Lessons from Black Catholic Trailblazers on the Path to Sainthood

    Venerable Pierre Toussaint, Servant of God Mother Mary Elizabeth Lange, Venerable Henriette DeLille, Servant of God Julia Greeley, Venerable Augustus Tolton, and Servant of God Thea Bowman

    January 22, 2025
    8 a.m to noon.

    Dreamweek Event: Finding your voice as a Black Catholic in the United States today can be challenging in many ways. This workshop will explore the lessons for leadership and empowerment we can learn from Venerable Pierre Toussaint, Servant of God Mother Mary Elizabeth Lange, Venerable Henriette DeLille, Servant of God Julia Greeley, Venerable Augustus Tolton, and Servant of God Thea Bowman – the six Black Americans in the official process of being recognized as Saints by the Catholic Church.

    Event Information

    For more information contact Sister Nicole Trahan

  • Perspectives on African American Literature, Feminism, and Community Organization

    A female student reading

    February 25, 2025
    9:45 to 11 a.m.

    Join the Department of English Literature and Language as we celebrate Black History Month with a student panel presentation examining slave narratives, feminism in the Black community, and strategies for community organization.

    Refreshments will be provided.

    For more information contact Margaret Cantú-Sánchez

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