Black History Month celebrates more than community at Utah Tech University; it celebrates standing together and inspiring the future.
Black History Month at Utah Tech provides students with opportunities to reflect on African American history while fostering inclusivity and connection across campus. Events hosted by the Black Student Union aim to create spaces where students feel welcomed, represented and supported.
The Utah Tech Black Student Union held a Back to the Function: Kick Off event Feb. 3 at the Gardner Student Center. This event, partnered with the Utah Tech Peer Coaches, had food, music and a photo booth for students to enjoy. Back to the Function was the beginning of many events happening in February to celebrate Black History Month, like the annual Poetry Slam and Excellence Gala.
Hudson Greenhalgh, a peer coach and senior marketing major from Roy, said, ” [We wanted to] come to their other things they have throughout the month, and just let them know we [peer coaches] are with them.”
Students filled the Gardner as music played, as they gathered around tables and posed for photos in the booth. Music played throughout the night as students danced on the dance floor. The event created a welcoming atmosphere, allowing students from different backgrounds to interact with and learn about the Black Student Union.
Shariya Miles, a freshman general studies major from Las Vegas, and the committee chair for the club, said events like this are important for building relationships.
“It’s a time for everyone to come together, everybody to have fun and recognize the importance behind this month, while also kind of making it lighthearted,” Miles said.
Sharniece Pinex, a sophomore psychology and criminal justice major from Chicago, and vice president of the club, expressed Black History Month as being about celebrating each other with a purpose.
Pinex said Black History Month is about honoring historical figures who paved the way for African American individuals.
“This month is to honor them and their hard work and their dedication to making sure everyone is equal, everyone is heard,” Pinex said.
Anyone can join the BSU. The club centers around honoring and welcoming African American students while encouraging allies to participate and support the club.
Kennidi Wilkins, a senior accounting major from St. Louis, said her favorite part of the club is, “The community, the togetherness, everyone, knowing how to get along easily with each other.”
Some other events the Black Student Union will be holding to celebrate and honor Black History Month will be their annual Poetry Slam Feb. 17, a Family Reunion Cookout Feb. 19 and an Excellence Gala Feb. 26. These events are held to inspire and acknowledge African American students, staff and faculty members on campus and throughout the community. More information can be found on their Instagram page.
Students involved in the Black Student Union hope events like these encourage greater understanding and connection across campus. Through celebration, education and unity, the organization continues to inspire students and build a supportive community at Utah Tech.
