IT Colleagues,

February is Black History Month, when we take time to recognize the achievements of African Americans and pay tribute to their central role in US history. Each year, there is a theme for Black History Month, and according to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, this year’s theme is African Americans and the Arts:

“African American art is infused with African, Caribbean, and the Black American lived experiences. In the fields of visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression, the African American influence has been paramount. African American artists have used art to preserve history and community memory as well as for empowerment. Artistic and cultural movements such as the New Negro, Black Arts, Black Renaissance, hip-hop, and Afrofuturism, have been led by people of African descent and set the standard for popular trends around the world. In 2024, we examine the varied history and life of African American arts and artisans.”

In keeping with this year’s theme, we invite you to visit the SJSU King Library’s exhibit Unforgettable: Celebrating a Time of Life, Hope, & Bravery at the DiNapoli Gallery located on the 2nd floor. The exhibit, which runs through the month of February, showcases photographer Cecil Williams’ personal accounts and historically significant photos and milestones in South Carolina during the Civil Rights era.

In addition to the art exhibit, SJSU is hosting jazz musician Loston Harris at the Hammer Theatre on February 16, 7:00-8:30 PM as part of the Black Cab Series. Tickets for this performance are $20 to $40.

Thank you,

The SJSU IT Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee