Authored by: J. Anthony Snorgrass, PhD, Professor of Communications and the Director, Center for Truth, Racial Healing & Social Justice
This week marked the beginning of Black History Month. Each February since 1976 this annual observance is recognized February 1st through March 1st throughout the United States and is also recognized in Canada, the Republic of Ireland, Germany, and the United Kingdom. In the United States the observance is often referred to as African American History Month which had its genesis in 1926 created by Carter G. Woodson a noted African American historian, scholar, educator, publisher, and social reformer. This month’s observances recognize the accomplishments of African Americans in business, medicine, sports, athletics, politics, religion, education, public service, the arts, entertainment, music, fashion, film, culinary, architecture, photography, scholarship, and advocacy among many other occupations. Lest we be reminded of the many outstanding and notable African American who are members of the Avila community.
This year I have been invited to exhibit in the Hallways of Dallavis from the over 2,500 (est.) pieces of African American memorabilia, literature, photographs, videos, and publications covering music, architecture, science, advertising, sports, film, politics, business, and just about every aspect of African American life that my wife and I have accumulated over the years. I have been privileged to witness and live through the “We Shall Overcome”; “I have a Dream”; “No Justice, No Peace”; “Black Power”; “I’m Black & I’m Proud”; the “Silver Rights Movement”, and the “Black Lives Matter” mantras. And as such I join our local PBS station in championing the passing of the baton – what’s next on the horizon with all the uncertainty and discord we are currently facing? So, this is the underpinning of the theme of what is being shared throughout the Dallavis hallways.
So, I have selectively curated a collection of books, films and other memorabilia that will be showcased throughout the month in the Dallavis hallways. Many of these are available for you to peruse or borrow. But the real story exists not just in what is shown in our hallways but in what is not shown and remains in the many boxes stacked in my office and in my studio; and on the bookcases of many others including Avila’s Library. It is utterly impossible to tell the full story in a few featured items over 28 days. It is however my hope that these items shown will ignite a desire to know more, ask questions do your own research or even do more with some of the topics and fields presented. … let’s just say, it’s complicated!
Be well and enjoy the month and come see us in Dallavis!
