February marks Black History Month, a significant celebration to honor the history, contributions and culture of Black individuals while also acknowledging the continued systemic and societal racism that exists in the nation. It is also a time for education and action, a time to listen and reflect, and a time to implement ways to continually provide support and learn even after the month has passed. There are many ways to get involved throughout the rest of this month, from events in town to smaller ways from home, and plenty of resources to educate oneself further.
The Grand Forks Cultural Committee has a few ways in which individuals can get involved in the community. Coming up first on Feb. 20, there is a family legacy preservation photoshoot fundraiser from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Love in Action. Spots are limited, so be sure to register. Following on Feb. 26 is a class at Arts for Vets for first time homebuyers at 5 p.m. Wrapping up the month on Feb. 28 is a gala at the Hilton Garden Inn from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a featured fashion show and awards. Registration is open now. Arts for Vets is also hosting the “Honoring Our Heritage Legacy Wall,” which pays homage to the stories and achievements of Black people and communities.
UND also has a few events and resources for this month. The Hilyard Center at UND hosted a conversation between Dr. Yohuru Williams and Dr. Tamba-Kuii Bailey on “Rediscovering Lost Values” to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day earlier in the year, and a recording is posted on the Hilyard Center’s YouTube channel. The Hilyard is also hosting Black History Month bingo on Feb. 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Attending events is not the only way to engage with black history. The Grand Forks Public Library has put together books and resources—for both adults and children—to help support Black authors and gain new perspective on certain experiences. While the Chester Fritz Library has not posted reading recommendations for Black History Month since 2024, their past posts are still available and can be found on UND’s “Chester Frtiz Library Updates” blog by typing “Black History Month” in the search bar. In addition to books, there are plenty of other media forms that can be found that are made by Black creators or that elevate Black voices. There are movies, television shows, artists, influencers, YouTubers, dancers, and more.
It does not so much matter how people support Black History Month: just that they do. Having conversations and growth throughout February is great, but continuing those practices into the rest of the year and onwards is even better.
Ed Tortorelli is a Dakota Student General Reporter. He can be reached at [email protected].
