2025 Black History Month is here! Free public events scheduled throughout the month at UH Hilo: Film, music, dance, food, lectures, book talks, field games, fashion show

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Events throughout the month will recognize the significant role that African Americans have played in the development of society with particular emphasis on contributions to labor.

Black History Month Celebration graphic with UH Hilo seal.

The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo invites the public to the campus’s Black History Month events to celebrate, honor and highlight the achievements, contributions, and history of Black individuals and communities. Events will recognize the significant role that African Americans have played in the development and shaping of various aspects of society, including politics, culture, science, and the arts with particular emphasis on their contributions to labor. All events are free.

The following events are scheduled.

Opening event, February 7

Black History Month poster. Kick off celebration. Hosted by UH Hilo. Feb. 7, 2025. 5-8p. Campus Center Plaza. Speakers, Performers, Interactive activities, Music Dance, Cultural Food and Local Vendors! Theme: African Americans and Labor sets out to highlight and celebrate the potent impact of this work.

Movie Night movie poster.Full schedule

  • Kick-Off Cultural Event. Showcasing African-centered art, dance performances, Gospel singing, and also presentations of Black history promoting both African American and African cultures throughout the diaspora by illuminating the contributions and talents of these identities. Friday, February 7, 5:00-8:00 p.m, Campus Center Plaza.
  • ʻOhana Black Field Games and Potluck. Saturday, February 8, 12:00 p.m., Wailoa Park.
  • Films: The Golden Goose and Pinocchio presentations by African American film maker, Ed Bell. Wednesday, February 12, 5.30 p.m, University Classroom Building, room 100.
  • Children’s Day (under 12). Children-centered activities. Saturday, February 15, 10:00 a.m to noon, Campus Center, room 301.
  • Beat Street poster.Film: Beat Street film presentation, 1984 film about New York’s Hip Hop culture. Wednesday, February 19, 5:30 p.m., UCB, room 100.
  • Gongfuball Presentation and Demonstration with UH Hilo kinesiology and excercise alumnus Steve Martin. Gongfuball mixes tag football, ultimate frisbee, and soccer into one sport with the element of flag boxing as a determinant of eliminating players and determining offensive defensive sides. Thursday, February 20, time and location to be announced.
  • Lecture: “From The Plantation to Implantation Afrofuturism in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.” UH Hilo alumnus Steve Martin reveals how Afrofuturism has shaped the future of the contemporary world and exposes impending dangers with a presentation designed to engage the audience. Thursday, February 20, 6:00 to 7:30 p.m, UCB Room 100.
  • Workshop: African String Figure Workshop. Wednesday, February 26, 3:00 to 4:30 p.m., Student Services Center, room W201.
  • Movie Night BlackKlansman poster.Film: BlackkKlansman. Based on a true story, an African American police officer successfully infiltrates the local KluKluxKlan Branch. Directed by Spike Lee. Wednesday, February 26, 5:30 p.m., UCB, room 100.
  • Book Talk: “Legacy Lost: Passing Across the Color Line.” With Barbara Hilyer. Thursday, February 27, 3:30 p.m., Campus Center, room 301.
  • Public Talk: Black Agroforestry with Malik Girley and Mago Smith. Part of UH Hilo’s Kuleana and Community public talk series. Friday, February 28, 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., Mookini Library.
  • Fashion Show: “Know Your Roots.” Friday, February 28, 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., UCB, room 127.

For more information contact Celia Bardwell-Jones.

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