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Jacksonville University Celebrates Black History Month

From discussion panels to movie nights, Jacksonville University is celebrating Black History Month 2021 with a schedule of events that highlights the unique issues, accomplishments and perseverance of the African American community in America. The University’s Special Task Force on Inclusion Culture and Equity has worked diligently, along with the Black Alumni Network, faculty and staff, to curate events that provide an opportunity to reflect on the significant role African Americans have played in shaping the history of this nation and in contributing in numerous ways to its progress.

February 1, 2021
Black Professionals Panel

5:00 p.m. — Virtual
Hosted by Career Management, a distinguished group of panelists will discuss their professional journeys and roads to success. A Q&A session will provide an opportunity for Jacksonville University students to ask questions of their own. Students can register on Handshake .

February 2, 2021
Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series

Topic: Mental Health Impacts of Racial Battle Fatigue
12:30 p.m. — Virtual
The Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series explores topics related to issues facing the Black community. Four different discussions will be held throughout the month. Dr. Natalie Indelicato and Mr. Michael Robinson kick off the series with a discussion about the mental health impacts of racial battle fatigue. More information is available here.

February 9, 2021
Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series

Topic: This Far by Faith: The Intersection of Spirituality and Mental Health in the Black Community
12:30 p.m. — Virtual
The Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series explores topics related to issues facing the Black community. Four different discussions will be held throughout the month. This session is presented by Dr. LaTonya Summers and Mr. Isaac Wells who will discuss the intersection of spirituality and mental health in the Black community. More information is available here.

February 9, 2021
Raisin’ the bar: Oatmeal Bar & Yoga

9:00 – 10:30 a.m. — Campus RecWell
In partnership with the Student Health Center Keigwin School of Nursing and Campus RecWell, JU is shining a light on the increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes within the African American community. Blood pressure checks will be available to attendees, and Campus RecWell will lead a yoga class starting at 9:30 a.m. Free oatmeal bars with toppings will be provided by Aramark while supplies last.

February 10, 2021
An Era of Racial Terror: Jacksonville’s Legacy of Lynching

7:00 p.m. — Virtual
Dr. Scott Matthews, assistant professor of history at Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, and Dr. Scott Matthews, a professor of history at Florida State College of Jacksonville, will give a virtual presentation about the history of racial terror lynchings in Jacksonville. For more information, please contact Dr. Jesse Hingson, professor of history and chair of the division of social sciences at Jacksonville University.

February 10, 2021
Race and Policing: An Honest Conversation

6:30 p.m. — Virtual
A panel of professionals featuring former Jacksonville police officer and sheriff Nat Glover will discuss different perspectives on race and police. More information is available here.

February 16, 2021
Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series
Topic: Taking a Stand and Taking a Knee: Social Justice Activism in Sports

12:30 p.m. — Virtual
The Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series explores topics related to issues facing the Black community. Four different discussions will be held throughout the month. This session is provided by Dr. Alyssa Zajdel who will discuss social justice and activism in sports. More information is available here.

February 23, 2021
Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series
Topic: Run Toward Your Biases
12:30 p.m. — Virtual
The Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series explores topics related to issues facing the Black community. Four different discussions will be held throughout the month. This session is presented by Dr. Tom Geismar who will discuss racial biases. More information is available here.

February 23, 2021
2021 Black History Showcase

7:00 to 8:30 p.m. — Virtual
Presented by the Jacksonville University Black Alumni Network, this entertaining event will feature the contributions of Black alumni artists, writers and performers. Musical performances, poetry/spoken word, skits, dances, and much more will be presented. Registration is required.

February 25, 2021
42 at the Field – Movie Night

7:00 p.m.
John Sessions Stadium
Gather and spread out at John Sessions Stadium for the screening of “42,” a feel-good drama about the early career of Jackie Robinson, the first Black baseball player in Major League Baseball.