Black History Month at UMass
Diversity, equity, and inclusion is essential to the educational mission of UMass Amherst. As Nefertiti Walker, UMass Amherst’s vice chancellor for diversity, equity, and inclusion and chief diversity officer, has said, “It will require intentional goal setting, data-informed decision making, and anti-racist action, to truly achieve our goal of inclusive excellence.”
The campus is immersed in these efforts 12 months a year, and not all of the events listed below are specifically planned for Black History Month. However they all provide special opportunities to learn, be inspired by, share, and celebrate Black history, heritage, and culture.
For national events such as virtual panel discussions and talks, please visit blackhistorymonth.gov.
Origins of Black History Month
By Barbara Krauthamer, Dean, College of Humanities and Fine Arts
Black History Month offers the opportunity to learn about the rich history and culture of African Americans in Massachusetts, the United States, and our own campus. Read this piece by Dean Barbara Krauthamer to learn more.
Ndaba Mandela: A Legacy of Social Justice
We were pleased to welcome Ndaba Mandela, author and activist, and the co-founder and co-chairman of the Africa Rising Foundation as our featured speaker for the Day of Racial Healing. Ndaba Mandela is also the grandson of Nelson Mandela, South African anti-apartheid activist and the first president of South Africa.
A History of Progress Through Activism
The legacy of actions for social justice and progress has been an integral part of our campus culture. Learn about the history of student and faculty driven activism and achievements for Black representation at UMass Amherst throughout the years.
Events Celebrating Black History and Culture
See the upcoming events on campus that celebrate Black History and culture run by student organizations, cultural centers, colleges, and more. Upcoming events include poetry nights, musical performances, and historical lectures.
Campus Centers and Resources
Our campus cultural centers, student organizations, and, networks, and educational hubs provide avenues to support the wellbeing, education, and experiences of our Black student, staff, and faculty. See a list of these resources as well as a timeline of our cultural centers.
UMass Black Presence Project
The UMass Black Presence website serves as a living history of the experiences, contributions, and stories of Black students, alumni, faculty, and staff. Through oral history interviews and research on historical figures, we've captured these stories to provide an authentic and in-depth understanding of these lived experiences.
