The University of North Georgia has taken the opportunity to celebrate and spread awareness about Black History Month with multiple events throughout the month of February. 

     The office of Multicultural Student Affairs has scheduled activities including speaker panels, fun events, movies, and Kahoot.it pertaining to Black History Month.

     UNG finds it imperative to celebrate its diverse student body.

 “We all strive to educate students on inclusivity; increase underrepresented students’ sense of belonging; and advocacy for those who have been marginalized.” -Kyle Murphy

     There are a total of five events planned throughout the month with various activities for all campuses to enjoy whether that be in person or virtually. 

     Within the first two weeks, there are two interactive events scheduled; the Courageous Conversation: BHM edition, and the African American Community Space located in the MSA office on both the Dahlonega and the Gainesville campuses. 

     The Courageous Conversation is a virtual speakers panel pertaining to Black History Month with UNG faculty, alumni, and current students who will be participating. 

     On Feb. 23, the Dahlonega campus will be presenting the Pixar film “Soul”. This movie is a culturally rich film that explores the musical history of the black community and how it has evolved into today’s interpretation of jazz music with themes about passion and determination. 

     The Gainesville campus will also be showing the film “If Beale Street Could Talk” which is a romantic drama set in the 1970s in Harlem starring a black couple and their love story.                          

     The decision behind choosing the film Murphy said, “It is based on the James Baldwin novel of the same name, and he is one of the most important American authors of the 20th century. This movie is another way to bring attention to his work.”

     Additionally, there are plans to host a speaker panel for Monica Pearson in person at the Gainesville campus but the event will also be streamed with Watch Parties. 

     Pearson is an influential individual in the black community as she is the first woman and person of color to anchor evening news in Atlanta. 

     Many of the events scheduled aim to educate UNG students about the history of the black community, and the experience as a whole.