Suffolk University is observing Black History Month with a variety of events focused not only on Black history but also on Black culture, according to student leaders helping organize the events.

Throughout February, the university’s Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion hosted film screenings, cultural celebrations, workshops and discussions aimed at highlighting both historical contributions and modern expressions of Black identity.

For Diversity Peer Educator Kylah Huggins, the goal of this year’s program was to highlight present-day culture alongside historical reflection.

“I wanted to focus on Black Americans’ culture currently,” said Huggins. “A lot of our previous events focused on the history and I think that’s also really important which is why I like to incorporate that.”

Huggins said many elements of everyday life, from fashion trends to popular slang, originate from Black communities, but those origins often go unrecognized.

One of CSDI’s events this month, “Black Dandyism,” was inspired by contemporary fashion movements and recent themes in pop culture spaces. Huggins was inspired by Ralph Lauren’s Oak Bluff Line, the “Quarter-Zip Movement” fashion trend and last year’s Met Gala theme, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.”

Next to the “Eat-Along With ‘Princess and the Frog’” event, “Black Dandyism” is one of the events Huggins was most excited for. It was an opportunity to celebrate Black excellence.

“It’s really fun to express the history behind Black expression and how that’s important and how we present ourselves today,” said Huggins. 

The event took place Feb. 19 in collaboration with Suffolk’s Black Student Union. The space was decorated with a floral theme, and soul food was served for dinner. Attendees could take photos at a booth, and organizers raffled off a Ralph Lauren-themed gift basket. Students received raffle tickets at the door.

DPE Victor Cruz-Castro said highlighting the modern-day culture helps shift the narrative surrounding Black History Month.

“A lot of people talk about celebrating Black history as recognizing historical oppression,” said Cruz-Castro. “Which is true, but at the end of the day, it’s flourishing, it’s modern, it’s embedded in our culture every day and it’s important to recognize that.” 

Huggins said she hopes students walk away from these events with a deeper understanding of the communities influencing the culture they engage with. 

Cruz-Castro wants students to feel welcomed and more confident participating in events to enhance their cultural appreciation and awareness.

In addition to the events, CSDI promoted a “year-round learning and action” guide encouraging students to engage with Black culture beyond February. The guide promoted Black authors, artists, businesses and community events. They emphasized the importance of learning directly from members of the communities and supporting Black voices and businesses.

“Recognition and education is important…education is activism,” said Cruz-Castro.