Celebrating Black History Month

Dear UAA Community,

This week marked the beginning of Black History Month, representing an opportunity for us to celebrate the triumphs of our nation’s history and discuss the trials and tribulations of this country’s painful past. It is important to recognize both the positive and negative events that led us to where we are today.

History and heritage months also allow us to learn about, appreciate and celebrate the diverse cultural identities that make our community so strong and vibrant. This includes celebrating our own identities as well as learning about cultures that are different from our own.

In Alaska, we recognize the contributions African Americans made, and continue to make, to the development of our state going back almost 200 years. You can learn more by reading Black History in the Last Frontier, a recently published book by UAA history professor Dr. Ian Hartman highlighting the achievements and contributions of Alaska’s Black community while demonstrating the racism and injustice these individuals endured on the road to building a home for themselves in Alaska.

I invite you to join the UAA community in a variety of events celebrating Black History Month. I also encourage you to learn more about the broad history of African Americans by exploring the website of the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

UAA is fully committed to embracing the diversity of our campus community and creating a culture of equity and inclusion. As opportunities arise, I hope you will participate in our collective efforts to create an institution that belongs to and serves all members of our community.

Sincerely,
Jenn Booz
UAA Chief Diversity Officer

February Archive