Support your local businesses

DECORAH — Luther College will host events to commemorate Black History Month in February. The events include a distinguished lecture, a film screening a dance performance and several social gatherings at local businesses. The events are open to the public. "Black History Month honors the resilience, brilliance and contributions of African Americans and others of the African diaspora who have shaped our nation and our world," said Robert Clay, diversity, equity and inclusion officer and assistant to the president for community engagement at Luther. "We are called beyond Black History Month to uplift the profound legacies of African Americans who contributed to the fabric of this country, fought for justice and equality that has benefited all, while inspiring us to take meaningful action in our communities and carry this legacy forward." Tuesday, Feb. 25: Black History Month Keynote Address, "The Power of Belonging: Reimagining Equity and Leadership in Higher Education," Center for Faith and Life Recital Hall, 7 p.m. Cameron C. Beatty, associate professor in the educational leadership and policy studies department at Florida State University, will give the Black History Month Keynote Address on Feb. 25. During his lecture, "The Power of Belonging: Reimagining Equity and Leadership in Higher Education," Beatty will examine the critical role of belonging in shaping equitable and inclusive institutions. He will also offer actionable strategies to empower leaders and communities. Friday, Feb. 14: Ailey II, CFL, 7:30 p.m. Ailey II, the renowned second company of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 14 in the CFL Main Hall. Started in 1974 with a mission to bring African American dance into the mainstream, Ailey II is one of America's most enduring and beloved dance companies. Buy tickets for the show and the pre-show dinner at tickets.luther.edu or at the Luther Box Office in the CFL. Social Events Build Connections, Inspire Change Luther College's Black Student Union (BSU) is hosting a bowling event to kick off Black History Month from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 7 at KingPin Entertainment Center. Then on Saturday, Feb. 8, the Center for Intercultural Engagement and Support (CIES) is arranging a full-day visit to the African American Museum of Iowa in Cedar Rapids. Next, join BSU for a Black History Month themed trivia night at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13 at Impact Coffee. Specialty drinks will be available for purchase. This event is sponsored by BSU and Impact Trivia. At 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20, BSU will host a screening of "Dreamland: The Burning of Black Wall Street" (2021) at Valders Hall of Science 206. Directed by Salima Koroma, this documentary celebrates the Black cultural renaissance that existed in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and investigates the 100-year-old race massacre that left a hidden stain on U.S. history. "Dreamland" was executive produced by NBA star LeBron James, businessman Maverick Carter, actor Jamal Henderson, and Philip Byron for The SpringHill Company, and Amy Entelis and Courtney Sexton for CNN Films. Black History Month activities wrap up with a Cultural Community Connections event from 5–7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27 at the Landing Market. BSU vice president Kwaku Junior Sarpong encouraged Decorah residents, Luther students, faculty and staff to participate in these events. "Attending events for Black History Month will provide a space for learning and reflection while engaging in meaningful conversations about racial justice, equity and inclusion," Sarpong said. "Through these events, we will honor the immense contributions of Black people to America, inspire change, build connections and work toward a more inclusive and just society." Join the community of savvy subscribers (for free)! Get the latest updates, tips, and insider information by subscribing to the free newsletter today.

Support your local businesses

Luther College to Commemorate Black History Month with Series of Events in February