UNM Black History Month features programs From January 28 through March 5 (because 28 days is not enough). The events listed are just a sampling; for more information, contact Professor Sonia Rankin at (505) 277-3769.
Black History Month Kickoff Brunch, with Michael Dyson
The UNM Africana Studies program celebrates the founding of the program 40 years ago, having kicked off a year long celebration in January of 2010. This year's theme is "Forty Years Wandering in the Academic Desert: Does Anyone See the Promised Land?" Dr. Michael Dyson, the "Hip Hop Professor," is the featured speaker at a special brunch to kick off the month.
When: 11 a.m., Saturday, January 29
Where: UNM SUB Ballroom, UNM Campus
Cost: $25
Flag Raising Ceremony
Ever year, the Black Liberation Flag is raised, symbolising the blood that unites all people, and the quest for liberation. A reception will follow.
When: Tuesday, February 1, 1:30 p.m.
Where: Scholes Hall, UNM
Chatter Performs Works by African American Composers
The Chatter chamber ensemble will perform works by Valerie Coleman, Jeffrey Mumford, David Baker and Alvin Singleton.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, February 5
Where: African American Pavilion, Expo New Mexico (San Pedro/Copper)
Cost: $20, $5 for students.
The seminars will explore the social, historical, moral and cultural heritage and political struggles for self-determination. Led by Dr. Jamal Marin, the series is open to the community at large.
When: 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Saturdays 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26
Where: Africana Studies, UNM, 4th Floor Mesa Vista Hall
Charlie Morrisey Research Hall Scholarly Soul Food and Colloquium Series
The series will focus on the state of education and black students in New Mexico. The discussion on February 9 will be led by doctoral student George Williams. On February 23, Mark Worthy presents his research on "The Browning of Europe and the Failure of Multiculturalism."
When: 1 p.m. February 9, noon February 23
Where: Africana Studies, UNM, 4th Floor Mesa Vista Hall
Opening Doors: Contemporary African American Academic Surgeons
The National Library of Medicine traveling exhibit provides a look at the history African Americans as pioneers in academic surgery. The opening reception at 4:30 will be followed by a keynote address at 5:30 p.m.
When: 4:30 p.m., February 25
Where: UNM Health Sciences Center, Domenici Center, West Lobby
Social Determinants of Health Symposium
The symposium will look at social inequalities and their effect on health and health outcomes. The event will be followed by the African American/Black Health Professional Alliance meeting and luncheon from noon to 2 p.m.
When: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Where: UNM Health Sciences, Domenici Center, Room 3010
Black Cultural Conference
The conference will focus on the contributions of African Americans in New Mexico.
When: March 4 - 5
Where: UNM Student Union Building
Other Events
Robert Randolph and the Family Band
The band's new album, We Walk This Road, celebrates African-American music from the past 100 years. The Constellations will open the show. The show is standing/dancing, with a small number of chairs. The show is 21 and over unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
When: 8 p.m., Tuesday, February 1: CANCELED due to snow
Where: El Rey Theater, 620 Central SW
Cost: $20 advance, $25 day of show ($2 charge on advance tickets).
Roots and Vision II: The African American Experience in New Mexico
The exhibit features works of art by African, Caribbean, and African-American artists in New Mexico.
When: Ongoing through April 16, Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Where: African American Pavilion, 310 San Pedro NE
Cost: Free
Black History Month Storytime
The special storytime features a celebration of African American leaders and authors.
When: 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, February 16
Where: Barnes & Noble, Coronado Mall, 6600 Menaul NE
Cost: Free
Church of Beethoven: Ramona King, Storyteller
Every week at the Church of Beethoven, folks gather to hear classical music, poetry and more. This week, hear Santa Fe New Music director and conductor John Kennedy, with Lang's Little Match Girl Passion. Storyteller Ramona King will be on hand for Black History Month.
When: Sunday, February 27 at 10:30 a.m.
Where: The Kosmos at 1715 5th Street NW
Cost: $15 adults, $10 students (with id),$5 for under 12; frequent passes available.
Resources
Some of the first settlers of Albuquerque were African-Americans, making Albuquerque one of the few North American cities whose founders included those of African descent. Read about the early settling of Albuquerque.
