Bringing together students, faculty, staff and the community, a month-long program of events embracing the theme of Afrofuturism will start on Feb. 3 and run through Feb. 26 on campus at the University. The Associated Students of the University of Nevada (ASUN), Diversity, Social Justice and Inclusion (DSJI), the African Student Association (UNR ASA), the Black Student Organization (BSO) and the Multicultural Center have joined together to create the robust program providing opportunities to learn, share and connect while honoring Black history, culture, community and the future.
“In a time when community and belonging matter more than ever, we remain committed to supporting our students, cultivating a space where culture, creativity and resilience thrive." - Markie Wilder, interim director of the Multicultural Center
Throughout February, in addition to the special events, the Multicultural Center will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., on the third floor of the JCSU as a space for students to connect, create and decompress while celebrating Black History Month. Each week, the Center will engage in cultural crafts that honor Black art and history. During the first week of February, people can explore the work of Alma Thomas while the Center invites students to create expressive art inspired by her legacy.
“In a time when community and belonging matter more than ever, we remain committed to supporting our students, cultivating a space where culture, creativity and resilience thrive," Markie Wilder, interim director of the Multicultural Center, said.
Events throughout the month
Monday, Feb. 3, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. | KC Breezeway
Test your knowledge of Black history while enjoying free brownies and coffee.- Men’s basketball: Nevada vs. Fresno State
Monday, Feb. 10, 8 p.m. | Lawlor Events Center
Cheer on the Nevada Wolf Pack as they take on Fresno State.
Tuesday, Feb. 11, 6–8 p.m. | Joe Crowley Student Union, Rooms 323 and 324
Help create hair care packages for Black Wall Street of Reno. Volunteers will receive free Chipotle bowls, while supplies last.- Afro-Latinx Representation in Film: A Movie Screening & Discussion
Wednesday, Feb. 12, 5 p.m. | Multicultural Center
Join in for a screening of a groundbreaking Mexican fiction film that sheds light on Afro-latinx communities—often-overlooked part of Mexico’s culture. This film, made with local non-professional actors, provides a unique perspective on identity, social issues and representation. Stay for a discussion on historical and colonial contexts, gender and power dynamics, and the role of filmmaking in visibility. - Roots and Radiance
Thursday, Feb. 13, 6–8 p.m. | Great Basin Hall multipurpose room
Join DSJI to learn more about curly hair care and receive free hair care supplies, while supplies last.
Thursday, Feb. 20, 6 p.m. | Wells Fargo Auditorium
Celebrate Black Culture through fashion and crafts with free refreshments.
Friday, Feb. 21, noon | Multicultural Center
Join Black faculty and staff for an afternoon celebrating community and connection.
Tuesday, Feb. 25, 5:30 p.m. | Joe Crowley Student Union ballrooms
Enjoy the month’s signature event and engage in Afrofuturism. This event features food, music, performances and a chance to engage with on- and off-campus partners.- Women’s basketball: Nevada vs. Colorado State
Wednesday, Feb. 26, 6:30 p.m. | Lawlor Events Center
Close out the month by cheering on the Nevada women’s basketball team as they take on Colorado State.
AnnaMarie Oshiokpekhai, the director of diversity for ASUN IDEA, has helped to organize and plan many of these events.
“I’m so glad to be in a position in ASUN where I can bring Black culture and history in all its facets to the forefront,” Oshiokpekhai said. “The Center for Student Engagement did a survey and found that Black students on campus were more likely to feel like they don’t belong on campus. I saw the Black Cultural Festival event to be an annual reminder that we do belong, we are worthy of attention and celebration, and we are part of the next generation changing the world. To be able to celebrate our history, culture, joy and roles in the future, things people everywhere are trying to deny and suppress, genuinely brings me so much happiness!”
Through these events, the University aims to honor the rich legacy of Black history while fostering belonging within the vibrant campus community. Everyone is encouraged to attend, learn and participate in this month of reflection, celebration and growth.
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