Celebrating Black History Month at Marist

In light of Black History Month, Marist University’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the Black Student Union (BSU) and several other offices and student organizations on campus organized a multitude of events, social media spotlights, speaking engagements and more to pay homage to Black culture and history. 

This year's lineup of events consisted of several informative and culture-rich experiences, such as the True Black History Museum set up in the Cabaret on Feb. 12, a talk held by artist and social justice advocate Halim Flowers and cultural representation through food in the Murray Dining Hall. 

The month kicked off with Gourmet Dining’s celebration of Black History Month in the dining hall on Feb. 4. Several authentic soul food dishes were served, including candied yams, collard greens, chicken and sausage jambalaya as well as Jamaican coconut pepper pasta. The celebration brought members of the Marist community together to enjoy music and authentic cuisine while paying tribute to Black culture.

Vice President of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Edward Antonio took to Marist’s celebration of Black history with some thoughtful sentiments that honored the labor of African Americans throughout history. He conveyed an important message about Black labor and how it has been monumental in laying the groundwork for the economic and social progression of America.

In his email sent out to students and staff, Antonio stated that Marist’s recognition of Black history during February should not be limited to this month alone but should instead be recognized by the Marist community all year long. 

He makes clear in his message that our appreciation of Black achievement and excellence should remain in our minds as ongoing celebrations of Black culture and history take place across campus. He expressed that throughout this month and beyond, there is always an opportunity to learn about and enrich your understanding of the Black experience.

To grow our understanding of the Black experience, the Office of DEI, Academic Affairs and Marist’s Black Student Union hosted guest speaker Halim Flowers, who, after being incarcerated at the age of 16, turned to poetry and art as a vessel for self-expression and profit. In sharing his artistic journey and how he was able to make a profit through his passion, Flowers delivered a valuable message about financial autonomy in the black community. 

In his talk, Flowers expressed how his experiences in the justice system inspired him to use his voice as a mechanism for change by spreading positivity and advocating the need for social justice relating to Black liberation. Student attendee at the talk, Mary Kirk ’27, said Flowers “emphasizes education as something valuable and empowering especially for Black America.” 

Marist’s BSU has also had profound contributions to Marist’s celebration of Black History Month. From helping to host guest speakers like Halim Flowers, sponsoring the Black History Month celebration in the dining hall and more, BSU has done relentless work to represent Black culture. 

Secretary of BSU, Gabrielle Lloyd ’26, remarked on BSU’s efforts to facilitate some of the month’s events and said, “We really wanted to create spaces that celebrate Black culture while also sparking important conversations.”  

Reflecting on the importance of creating opportunities to appreciate Black culture at Marist, Lloyd stated, “BSU is proud to be a driving force in creating these spaces, and [they’re] excited to keep going!” 

The efforts on behalf of BSU, the Office of DEI and many of Marist’s other offices and cultural affinity groups have brought a newfound understanding of Black experiences and culture to the Marist community this month, which will hopefully stay with students and staff well into the future.