Black History Month takes place in February. This month is dedicated to showcasing past and present accomplishments of important Black leaders and celebrating them. Among Some of these leaders are Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks and Malcolm X. These historical Black figures helped influence change in the world and inspired movements such as the Black Lives Matter movement this past year, during the pandemic. 

It may be a new year, but the movement is still here. Many have remained vigilant and are working hard to ensure that the work of many infamous Black leaders are not forgotten. American River College is also taking part by sharing with the community the importance of  Black history and has many events to honor this month. 

In addition to the events held earlier this month, ARC still has many ways Students can get involved. ARC is working with the Sacramento City College ASHÉ center to host a Black History Jeopardy game night via Zoom. This event is scheduled to take place on February 19, at 1 p.m. The ASHÉ center is also putting on another event on February 24, at 2 p.m., centered around self-care for Black women. 

The ASHÉ center is known for its inclusiveness and cultural awareness, which Support Specialist, Lisa Hayden says she tries to emphasize when creating events that go beyond the standard recognitions 

 “[As a society] we [usually] focus on three prominent Black Americans in history, [when learning about Black leaders]: Dr. King, Mrs. Parks and President Obama. Although these three deserve all the accolades and honor, when we only focus on the select few [it does not represent the Black community enough],” Hayden said in an email to The Current. “[In ASHÉ we ] center the experience of being Black and the robust contributions by Black / African-Americans to culture, and civilization throughout history.”

This month is dedicated to Black excellence and ARC’s Achieve program will be hosting a Netflix watch party on February 18, at 1 p.m. Becoming, Michelle Obama is the movie playing that night in accordance with Black History Month. Although Achieve is a program for first-time college students, everyone is welcome to attend.

 February is a time to revisit and reflect on the Black communities within The Los Rios Community College District.

“This past year has been especially challenging for our Black communities with the heavy impacts of COVID, unemployment, global rebellions, and more. It has also been one where we have seen the power of telling the truth of our stories in making tangible and impactful changes in policy, in hearts, and in minds. But we’ve been telling our stories for years, now people are a little more open to listening,” College Equity Officer Nick Daily said. 

ARC is structuring these events to educate students on the importance of Black history, but it’s not limited to this time frame.

 “Black history is American history… Black history is not just contained to the month of February, but year-round,” Hayden said.