Black African Coalition to host a variety of events to celebrate Black History and excellence during February
Two years ago as a first-year student, Joella Agoro attended the Black Excellence Ball, hosted by Arizona State University’s student-led Black African Coalition (BAC) during Black History Month. Students were given the chance to showcase their best-dressed attire, enjoy catered food and celebrate Black Excellence. She was mightily impressed by how the organization celebrated its Black students and their roots and wanted to become more involved.
Fast-forward to today, Agoro is now president of the coalition and the Black Excellence Ball is still one of the most lauded events hosted by the BAC during Black History Month. Agoro describes the BAC as a central hub for students of Black and African descent to have a tight-knit community, as well as resources for success.
“We serve as the liaison between the community at ASU and then (provide) educational and support channels,” Agoro said. “Another big thing we do is promote Black excellence, mental health and academic success as well.”
The BAC houses 28 member organizations tailored to support Black students on campus, and it also gives out scholarships and service opportunities to students to help advance their careers or education.
The coalition hosts numerous events throughout the year but takes pride in maximizing the spotlight during Black History Month in February. Agoro thinks this month’s celebration is important because it helps her remember who came before or inspires her to keep striving for greatness.
“It's important that we remember our history so that it's not repeated,” Agoro said. “It's important to also recognize all of the leaders that came before us and the work that they've done for us to get to this space and for us to get to this point… (Black History Month) reminds me of a reason to keep going. And it reminds me that I'm just so blessed.”
The BAC has already gotten to work hosting events to commemorate this month’s celebration. To kick off February, the BAC and the Sankofa Leadership Institute hosted the Sankofa Summit at Desert Financial Arena, which encourages first-year students to get involved on campus and learn about the resources they have to succeed.
The BAC also be partnered with Sun Devil Basketball and attending the Men’s and Women’s doubleheader at Desert Financial Arena on Feb. 15. All of the member organizations of the coalition will be tabling at the games so attendees can learn more about each club and its opportunities.
The Valentine Black Love Event is a brand-new festivity the coalition is bringing to students this year. It will take place on Feb. 21 at the Alumni Lounge in the Memorial Union. This event celebrates Valentine's Day by inviting students to take part in an immersive experience commemorating Black love.
The heavily anticipated Black Excellence Ball, Agoro’s favorite event of this month, will be held the following day on Feb. 22 at Gammage Auditorium. The ball is asking for volunteers to help set up and clean up the venue, assist the DJ booth, and ensure the event runs smoothly.
The Soul Food Picnic, slated for Feb. 27 at the Student Services Lawn, will wrap up the festivities for Black History Month. This outing aims to celebrate Black culture and community while enjoying great food. Two vendors will be present to serve classic soul foods to attendees while a live DJ set and immersive games are to invigorate the atmosphere.
All of the details for events being hosted this month can be found on the BAC website. And though celebrating Black History Month is a big emphasis for the BAC, the coalition will continue to have opportunities for students throughout the year and stay devoted to empowering Black students. Their offices are located on the second floor of the Student Pavillion, and Agoro encourages anyone to come by if they need someone to advocate for them or if they want to become active in clubs and organizations.
“Don't be afraid to come and reach out,” Agoro said. “A lot of people want to get involved, and they want to make an impact on their community, and they just don't know how.”