Celebrating Black History Month
In the U.S. and Canada, February is recognized as Black History Month, sometimes referred to as African-American History Month. The precursor to Black History Month in the U.S., was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, declaring the second week of February to be "Negro History Week". Of note, history suggests this week was chosen because it coincided with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and Frederick Douglass (February 14), which Black communities had celebrated since the late 19th century. Woodson, an American social reformer and statesman, was a national leader of the abolitionist movement and historian who contended that teaching the history of a race is essential to ensure the physical and intellectual survival of the race within broader society. Initially, Black History Month was celebrated at Kent State in 1970. Subsequently, in 1976, Black History Month was celebrated all across the country, with President Gerald Ford formally recognizing it.
Black history, this month, is a time to reflect on the historical injustices that have occurred over the years, as well as the continued injustices Black, and other minorities, face on a regular basis in today’s society (e.g., violence, health inequities, socioeconomic challenges, etc). Not only must we reflect and learn from the past, we must also work together to address the injustices individuals continue to face. Working together and embracing diversity makes us stronger.
Black History Month is an opportunity to:
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Remember history, injustices and the need for ongoing change.
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Celebrate the accomplishments and the leaders that are part of our past and present-day history, like:
- Dr. Chauncey Ira Cooper
- Drs. Wiley Baines, Frederick D. Inge & George Lark
- Drs. Olihe Okoro, Caroline Gaither and L'Aurelle Johnson
- Dr. Leyla Rashid, ‘22, Ayantu Abubaker (P4), and J’Nae Smith (P4) who established the University of Minnesota Student National Pharmaceutical Association (SNPhA).
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Learn from resources like the following and so many more.Join any of the many Black History Month activities in your community, including those on our University campuses.
- Black History Month - Library of Congress
- Here’s the story behind Black History Month - and why it’s celebrated - NPR
- Black History Month - Kids National Geographic
- Black History Month Resource Guide - Center for Racial Justice
- Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture - Educator Toolkit
- Where it Starts Series, a collection of personal stories that highlight some of the incredible accomplishments from our Black community, featuring University of Minnesota students and alums.
Black History Month Activities
PharmD Student Organization Activities
All events are open to faculty, staff, students and alumni unless otherwise noted.
Wednesday, February 1 - Honoring Our Faculty
Hosted by College Board
12:15-1:15 p.m.
LifeSci 163 and WDH 7-193 OR Via Zoom
Meeting ID: 910 2637 9123
Passcode: fLkKi3
Join the College Board in celebrating our amazing faculty Drs.Okoro, Johnson, and Gaither. Participants will hear from Drs. Okoro, Gaither and Johnson about their professional journey and share what Black History Month means to them. Additionally, there will be a poster for students to share what Black History Month means to them.
Wednesday, February 1 - Black History Month Jeopardy
Hosted by SNPhA
12:15-1:15 p.m.
HSEC 2-138
SNPhA's February theme is BIPOC Representation in Healthcare. We will be focusing on health disparities and the history of medicinal achievements. Jimmy John's will be available and prizes for the winners!
Monday, February 6 - Fellowship Career Path
Hosted by MPSA
12:15-1:15 p.m.
TC: HSEC 2-138 and D: LSci 163 Or Via Zoom
Passcode: MPSA22
Join us as we learn about Pharmacy Fellowships with Dr. Joseph Ahenkorah. Dr. Ahenkorah is a graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy. He has a fellowship with the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). Joseph was a class representative for the Class of 2022 on the Twin Cities campus.
Wednesday, February 15 - Disparities in HIV Care
Hosted by College Board
12:15-1:15 p.m.
D: LifeSci 163 and TC: WDH 7-193 OR Via Zoom
Meeting ID: 910 2637 9123
Passcode: fLkKi3
Join Dr. Humberto Jimenez, Dr. Kevin Olander, and Dr. Prosperity Eneh as they present their work in the HIV specialty.
Monday, February 20 - PDX Panel - Open to PDX members only
6 p.m.
Wednesday, February 22 - Alumni Panel
Hosted by College Board
12:15-1:15 p.m.
LifeSci 163 and WDH 7-193 OR Via Zoom
Meeting ID: 910 2637 9123
Passcode: fLkKi3
Join us as we hear from a panel of past alumni Dr. Ronda Chakolis and Dr. Joseph Ahenkorah. They will be talking about their experience at the College of Pharmacy and navigating the workforce as black professionals.
Monday, February 27 - Disparities in PGx
Hosted by MPSA
12:15-1:15 p.m.
TC: HSEC 2-138 and D: LSci 163 Or Via Zoom
Passcode: MPSA22
Join Dr. Eric Matey and Dr. Courtney Paetznick who will share their experiences in pharmacogenomics work.
Affinity Groups
Any individual in our college community who identifies as Black or African American is welcome to join the College of Pharmacy Black or African American affinity group. This group, and all college affinity groups, are designed to bring together groups of people with similar backgrounds or identities which may serve as barriers to inclusion or success, to discuss their shared experiences and advocate for institutional change. The College of Pharmacy also has an ally group to support the affinity groups and advocate for a more equitable and inclusive college culture. Follow the links to learn more. All are welcome!