Malone celebrates Black History Month

“Started by Carter G. Woodson in 1926 as Black History Week, Black History Month has been expanded to help us understand the critical contributions of African Americans and the part of American history that was long overlooked and repressed,” said Andrea Ramsey, director of multicultural services. “We welcome the entire community to participate in the celebrations and programs this month in the spirit of Christian unity and in appreciation for the contributions of African Americans."

Malone students have been instrumental in planning and executing this year’s events and have worked together to create meaningful experiences that will reach a wide audience in a variety of ways.

“Their inspiration and creativity in creating this year’s events came from a desire to foster education, increase appreciation, and expand understanding and unity among all people on campus,” said Ramsey.

New this year is a Spiritual Formation Opportunity (SFO) that runs throughout February entitled “A Different World.” Developed and facilitated by Windy Singo ’24, a member of the leadership team for multicultural services, the goal of this weekly Life Group is to help attendees better embrace each other’s differences in order to love our neighbors well.

"When I came to Malone as a freshman, I felt very uncomfortable, unaccepted, and excluded by students who don't look like me because I'm black, and unwanted by students who do look like me because I'm African,” said Singo. “What I hope this SFO will do is help others realize that we all don't look the same around campus but that doesn't mean we all can't be one in Christ and accept everyone's differences. I want to ensure that future students who may look like me don't feel how I felt as a new student."

As these student leaders work together to celebrate the accomplishments of black people with their peers, they are learning and growing through the process.

“It is my hope that they will learn more about the contributions of African Americans, which is, in fact, American history,” said Ramsey. “Unfortunately, that has been omitted or minimized in published materials and curriculum in our country due to racism and discrimination.”

“I’m learning that I often conform to environments different from what I’m used to in order to try to fit in instead of staying true to myself,” said Singo.

The full offering of programs and celebration for Black History Month includes:

Every Monday: A Different World in the Silk Auditorium – 7:30 p.m.

February 2: Movie discussion in Silk Auditorium
February 11: Canvas & Convos in the Stewart Room
February 15: Panel discussion in Silk Auditorium
February 19: A Night of Worship, feat. The One Voice Choir in the JC Chapel – 6 p.m.
February 22: Trivia Night at the Caf – 9 p.m.