OGDEN — Black History Month 2024 is in full swing at Weber State University. The institution is celebrating the month with a number of special events putting a spotlight on the culture, experiences and contributions of African Americans.

“As February unfolds, we honor and celebrate the rich tapestry of African American history, resilience and contributions that have shaped our nation,” Maryan Shale, the program manager at Weber State’s Black Cultural Center, said in a release. “This month is an opportunity to recognize the powerful stories and achievements that often go unacknowledged. Let us come together for a month filled with engaging events, discussions and reflections that highlight the invaluable legacy of Black history.”

WSU rang in the month by providing an opportunity for people to represent their country with African heritage attire at the Black Cultural Center on Monday. Participants were invited to have their pictures taken for the Center for Belonging & Cultural Engagement’s Instagram.

That was followed Wednesday by a panel discussion with the Divine Nine, a group of historically Black fraternities and sororities.

Moving forward, WSU has the following additional activities scheduled in observance of Black History Month:

• Tuesday: People are invited to write love letters detailing what they like about Black history or themselves, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Black Cultural Center. Then, at 4 p.m., the film “Love & Basketball” will be shown.
• Feb. 20: A field trip to Adobe’s campus in Lehi is planned, with the aim of joining the company’s Black History Month celebration. For registration, visit the Black Cultural Center or email maryanshale@weber.edu or brandonflores@weber.edu by Feb. 16.
• Feb. 21: An African dance performance set to Afrobeat music will be held in WSU’s Shepherd Union atrium at 3 p.m. From 4-6 p.m. a discussion entitled, “Shades of Unity: Celebrating the Diversity within Black Identity,” will be held in the Shepherd Union ballrooms, during which a student panel will talk about their lived experiences in hopes of celebrating the richness of Black identities.
• Feb. 23: Free haircuts from a Black-owned barbershop will be given from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Shepherd Union atrium. Erin Gaston, the entrepreneur and Ogden business owner offering the cuts, is working to change the way Black hair is perceived. Gaston also will be providing information about barber apprenticeship opportunities to students. Finally, from 3-3:30 p.m., Bomba Marilé — an Afro-Puerto Rican music and dance group — will be giving an African dance performance.

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