Texas A&M’s Black Community Celebrates Heritage

News Summary

Despite federal challenges to cultural observances, Texas A&M University’s Black community, led by the Memorial Student Center Woodson Black Awareness Committee, is determined to celebrate Black History Month. The committee highlights significant historical figures and emphasizes the importance of Africana studies in educating all students. Faculty and students advocate for university support to enhance the visibility of Black history, ensuring that contributions from the past are honored and future generations are inspired. The ongoing commitment to recognition and celebration within the community remains strong.

Texas A&M’s Black Community Stands Strong Amid Federal Challenges

In the great city of College Station, Texas, the vibrant community at Texas A&M University is showcasing an unwavering commitment to celebrating Black History Month despite recent federal pushback on cultural observances. While federal agencies have opted to pause celebrations for events like Black History Month, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and Juneteenth, dedicated faculty and students at Texas A&M are determined to ensure that the rich history and contributions of Black Americans are not forgotten.

A Pledge to Celebrate

The Memorial Student Center Woodson Black Awareness Committee (MSC WBAC) is stepping up to the plate, taking the lead in honoring the history, accomplishments, and ongoing struggles of the Black community. Recognizing the importance of this month, junior psychology student and recruitment chair for the MSC WBAC has voiced strong resolve to push forward with their celebrations. This determination echoes throughout the organization, showcasing a commitment to keeping Black history alive and vibrant on campus.

Highlighting Historical Figures

The MSC WBAC aims to shine a spotlight on the contributions of renowned figures in Black history, emphasizing the significance of personalities such as Carter G. Woodson. Woodson initiated the celebration of Negro History Week in February 1926, which was later expanded by President Gerald R. Ford in 1976 to become what we now know as Black History Month. This expansion signifies not just a month for recognition, but a full range of awareness regarding the historical experiences that shaped America.

A Symbol of Triumph

Associate professor Alain Lawo-Sukam emphasizes that Black History Month is more than a celebration; it stands as a symbol of victory over oppression. It’s a reminder that despite the challenges of the past, the future can be brighter. He adds that, although the visibility and resources for the Africana Studies Department have dwindled over time, the pride and enthusiasm of the faculty and students still run deep.

The State of Africana Studies

Once a robust program occupying its own suite at the anthropology building, the Africana studies program has seen significant changes that have led to a diminished presence on campus. Currently, it occupies only two small boxes. This reduction in visibility raises questions about support from the university, especially considering the crucial role Africana studies plays in educating all students about the often overlooked contributions of Black Americans.

Addressing Misconceptions

Despite some misconceptions that Africana studies only benefits Black students, both Lawo-Sukam and professor Rebecca Hankins stress the importance of this field for every student. They note that Black history is frequently excluded from public school curricula, making it all the more important for college students to educate themselves about the past to avoid repeating historical mistakes.

A Call for Support

Hankins has been vocal about the need for increased university support for the Africana studies department. The belief is that a stronger foundation in this area could lead to a more inclusive environment where the histories of all peoples are celebrated and understood.

Celebrating Achievements

In light of these efforts, the MSC WBAC remains steadfast in its mission to pay homage to noteworthy Black figures, including Zoe Slaughter, who made history as Texas A&M’s first African-American woman to join the women’s golf team. Her contributions during her college career have paved the way for future generations and provided a winning legacy that the organization celebrates wholeheartedly.

Looking Ahead

With the MSC WBAC being the oldest Black organization at Texas A&M, established back in 1969, it has a rich history of advocating for recognition and celebration of Black culture. As they navigate the challenges presented by federal inertia around cultural observance, there’s a palpable spirit within the Texas A&M Black community that signals one thing: Black History Month will be celebrated, and the voices of the past will resonate loudly for all to hear.

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Additional Resources

• The Battalion: A Symbol of Victory
• Wikipedia: Black History Month
• 12th Man: Black History Month
• Google Search: Texas A&M Black History Month
• KAGS TV: Zoe Slaughter Thrives
• Google Scholar: Africana Studies Texas A&M
• Chronicle of Higher Education: A Pawn in a Game
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas A&M University
• Good Bull Hunting: Back in Black
• Google News: Texas A&M University