CU Boulder Kicks Off Black History Month

By Shaun Smith

On Monday, Feb. 2, the University of Colorado Boulder’s Center for African and African American Studies (CAAAS) conducted its fourth annual ‘CAAAS Day,’ an event filled with a buffet for guests and celebrations to kick off Black History Month alongside the University of Colorado Boulder’s Alumni Association and Ethnic Studies department.

In tow with a delicious buffet, CAAAS Day featured performances from an array of guests, including Hugh Ragin, Marcia Douglas, That Brother Trenell, Dr. Reiland Rabaka, Mapute Mensah, & Logo Ligi. From readings of poetry reflecting Black history in America to a jazz band arrangement for the guests in attendance, CAAAS Day was able to kick off Black History Month with smiles and laughter while engaging successfully with students from diverse backgrounds.

CU Boulders Black Diaspora Program Manager out of the Center for Cultural Connections and Community, Stephen Jackson, commented on the celebration’s outcome by stating, “With the CAAAS Day Celebration, beyond welcoming the CU campus into Black History Month – it was creating intentional spaces for connection. I was really glad to see that happening through the event.” While the Black History Month celebration was successful in bringing together student organizations, departments, and campus partners, Jackson hopes that expanded participation will go even further with an “increased number of student organizations and campus offices tabling so we can showcase an even broader range of voices and resources within our community.”

While CAAAS Day was able to kick off Black History Month, the University of Colorado Boulder continues its celebration with events such as a culinary journey of African food and the Black Student Alliance’s Black Ivy In Excellence Formal. Below, you can find a list of upcoming events celebrating Black History Month on the CU Boulder campus.