Black History Month film series underway at UH Hilo with theme “Black Trailblazers in Sport”
Film series will feature prominent Black figures in sport who broke down barriers that continue to benefit all athletes. A film will be shown each Wednesday during February, open to the public.
Rise of the Wahine will be shown Feb. 4, 2026. Details below.
By Staff/UH Hilo Stories.
The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo is screening several films this month as part of Black History Month.
Black History Month was established to recognize and celebrate the contributions of African Americans, and to remember profound leaders who have left behind a legacy that has inspired others. It also provides an opportunity to reflect upon and promote an understanding of the history, diaspora and culture of people of African Heritage.
This year’s theme is “A Century of Black History Commemorations” and honors the 100th anniversary of Negro History Week, established by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926, which has since grown into Black History Month.
“Black Trailblazers in Sport” is the theme of the UH Hilo film series, featuring prominent Black figures in sport who broke down barriers that continue to benefit all athletes.
A film will be shown each Wednesday of February, 5:30p at University Classroom Building, room 100. The film events are open to the public.
Come join the UH Hilo Black History Month Committee, Department of History, and the Hilo History Club to watch the film screenings and participate in provocative discussions on the intersection of race, gender, and sport.
February 4: Rise of the Wahine
See trailer at top of this post.
The film dives into the incredible legacy of Dr. Donnis Thompson, a Black woman who served as the first women’s athletic director at UH Mānoa and was a fierce advocate for civil rights. Discussion will focus on her impact on Hawaiʻi athletics (and beyond) through the lens of race, gender, and place.
February 11: 42
The life story of Jackie Robinson and his history-making signing with the Brooklyn Dodgers under the guidance of team executive Branch Rickey. He didn’t just play the game, he changed the game of baseball forever.
February 18: Ali
Will Smith puts on the gloves and steps between the ropes as Ali, arguably the most fascinating personality in sports history in this biopic from Academy Award nominated director Michael Mann.
February 25: Althea
Trailblazing athlete Althea Gibson, who overcame countless obstacles to become the first African-American to play and win at Wimbledon.
The University of Hawaiʻi is an Equal Opportunity Institution.
For disability accommodations contact Yolisa Duley at hduley@hawaii.edu or Jennifer Stotter at jstotter@hawaii.edu.
Sponsored by the Black History Month Committee, Department of History, and Hilo History Club.
For more information, contact: Yolisa Duley.
