The Ohio State University at Mansfield and North Central State College are pleased to present this year’s Black History Month celebration. Through this year’s Black History Month activities, our campuses and Mansfield communities will be invited to view Black History through a different lens.
The theme of this year’s Black History Month activities is “The Story of Us.” The events are designed to be interconnected and to build upon prior sessions, prompting us to learn that we are more alike than we are different. As a significant component of American history, Black History is a shared history—Black History truly is “The Story of Us.”
Jan. 27, Common Hour – 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Dr. Dawn Kitchen, Associate Professor, Anthropology presents: “Are Race Differences Real or Are We More Alike Than We Think?”
With Dr. Dawn Kitchen, we will explore how the concept of ‘race’ is a social construct and how that construct has been a powerful determinant in American history and politics.
Feb. 3, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Dr. Amy Brunell, Assistant Professor, Psychology, & Dr. Phil Mazzocco, Associate Professor, Psychology presents: “Implicit Bias”
Dr. Amy Brunell and Dr. Phil Mazzocco will define the concept of “implicit bias” and explore whether the underlying causes of highly publicized current events can be explained within that context.
Feb. 12, “A Call to Action: Town Hall Series”
How can institutions of higher learning work on behalf of the campus and its surrounding communities to make a positive social impact? Recent highly publicized events provide an opportunity for Ohio State Mansfield and North Central State College to serve as catalysts for ‘crucial conversations.’ The goal is to cultivate an environment that promotes greater understanding, thus developing a proactive, unified effort for positive change.
This two-part “Call to Action: Town Hall Series” challenges participants to learn how race still matters. The conversation begins on the Mansfield campus to focus on the important role students can play in social issues. The second conversation of the series encourages community members to come together to discuss the shared benefits of racial equity. These are conversations you won’t want to miss!
“A Call to Action”: Campus Town Hall Meeting
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Riedl-151
Race Still Matters, Pt. 1: Who Owns Responsibility for Student Empowerment?
Moderator: Austin McCoy, co-founder of the United Coalition for Racial Justice
“A Call to Action”: Community Town Hall Meeting
5 – 7:30 p.m., Location TBA
Race Still Matters, Pt. 2: Creating the Return on Investment (ROI) for Racial Equity
Moderator: Brigitte Coles, News Anchor/Reporter at WMFD-TV Mansfield
Feb. 26, 6 – 8 p.m.
A Soul Food Dinner Celebration!
The “Soul Food” tradition can be traced back to southern plantations and slavery. Our Soul Food Dinner celebrates that tradition of culinary creativity that is presented in what’s known as “good ol’ down home cooking!” Pastor Walter Jordan will share how the label ‘soul food’ came about and how this tradition really is part of our shared American legacy. North Central State’s Cheryl Carter will engage us with her moving readings of famous Black literature; and local vocalist, Kristin Scott, will thrill us with her musical talent to complete an evening of good company, good food and great entertainment.
