Black History Month at SAC
Empowering Through Effort, Inspiring Through Action
"The national 2025 Black History Month theme, African Americans, and Labor, focuses on the various and profound ways that work andworking of all kinds – free and unfree, skilled, and unskilled, vocational and voluntary – intersect with the collective experiences of Black people".
Join us as we celebrate the achievements of African Americans and their profound impact on shaping the United States. Honor their resilience, innovation, and strength, which continue to inspire change. Source: Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASAALH).
Black History Month Merchandise
Black History Month 2025 workshop attendees will receive a stylish commemorative t-shirt. We also have limited number of hooded sweatshirts will also be available for purchase, with all proceeds going toward future Black History Month programs. Interested? Contact at burrus_tanisha@sac.edu
Black History Month 2025 Schedule
Register HERE to attend our campus events!
Black History Month Parade and Unity Festival
Saturday, 2/1 | 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. | 205 W. Center St., Anaheim, CA |
Parade Kicks Off at 10:00 a.m. followed after with the Unity Festival 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Join U2 (UMOJA/UJIMA) Scholars with participating in the Annual Orange County Black History Parade and Unity Festival, on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 9am-4pm. Please find the U2 Scholars informational table. For more information about SAC U2 Scholars' involvement in the festival, please contact Tanisha L. Burrus at burrus_tanisha@sac.edu.
Black History Rocks!: Art Project
Monday, 2/10 - 2/13 (exact times TBA) | U2 Scholars Center - Village (VL) 108
Head over to VL-108 for a fun and insightful craft where you will be decorating rocks with black history facts!
Unlocking Opportunities to a Historically Black College & University (HBCU: Guarantee Transfer Program) with Derrick Young
Wednesday, 2/12 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. |U2 Scholars Center - Village (VL) 108
*In collaboration with Center for Teacher Education & Santiago Canyon College, Umoja Program
Join us to explore the academic excellence and unique opportunities offered by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). These institutions are leaders in awarding degrees to Black students in life sciences, physical sciences, mathematics, and engineering. Learn how the California Community Colleges Transfer Guarantee Program can help all students on our campus transition smoothly to a partnered HBCU, saving time and costs while achieving academic and career goals.
The Cost of Progress: African Americans, Labor, and the Search for Justice with Dr. Mel Palmer
Wednesday, 2/19 | 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Johnson Student Center (JSC) 219 1-4 (session is also available via Zoom).
*Lunch will be served to workshop participants, limited quantity available
Join us for an inspiring and thought-provoking event at Santa Ana College's Black History Month celebration! Dr. Mel Palmer will take us on an engaging journey through U.S. history, uncovering how moments of progress have often come at a tremendous cost to marginalized communities, especially African Americans. This powerful presentation will not only deepen your understanding of historical injustices but also invite meaningful dialogue in an interactive and dynamic setting. Don’t miss this opportunity to reflect, learn, and connect during this impactful event!
Forgotten Images: A Traveling Exhibit
Thursday, 2/20 | 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m | Johnson Student Center (JSC) 219 1-4
Uncover the rich tapestry of African American history at the Forgotten Images Exhibit, making a one-day stop at Santa Ana College! Immerse yourself in one of the largest collections in the area. From West African history to highlighting labor-- West Africa, Railroad Industry, and African American Hair Care, this curated selection beautifully showcases the dynamic culture and profound contributions of African Americans that have resonated globally.
Keynote: Building Bridges: Leadership, Innovation, and the Journey of Charlene Reynolds
Tuesday, 2/25 2:00-4:30 p.m. | Phillips Hall
*Reception immediately following keynote presentation in A-130; limited quantity available
Celebrate Black History Month at Santa Ana College with an inspiring keynote and Q&A session featuring Charlene Reynolds, the first African American woman director of John Wayne Airport. In alignment with this year's national theme, "African Americans in Labor," Ms. Reynolds will share her journey of breaking barriers, navigating intersectionality, and excelling in senior leadership roles. She will reflect on the contributions of African Americans to the labor force and inspire students to explore careers in labor and leadership. The event will conclude with a catered reception, providing a space for meaningful connections and continued dialogue. Don't miss this empowering experience!
Black History Rocks!: 365 Virtual Knowledge Bowl w/ Jamaal Brown
Wednesday, 2/26 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.| Zoom
Jamaal Brown will facilitate an action filled virtual trivia style Black History competition entitled, The Black365 Knowledge Bowl. This competition is a buzzer slapping, action-filled, academic competition where participants answer a series of questions in African American History for a chance to call themselves Black365 Knowledge Bowl Champs! The purpose is to be an engaging educational, inspirational, entertaining and informational hour of play regarding black history and prominent black people.
ASG presents: Film Screening of Malcolm X
Thursday, 2/27 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.| Location: JSC 101-The Spot
*Exclusive event for students
Campus and Community Partners:
Student Affairs (U2 Scholars Program and Outreach), Student Services (Center for Teacher Education and University Transfer Center), Student Equity and Achievement Program, Public Information Office, Fine and Performing Arts Division, Kinesiology & Athletics Department, Nealley Library,
School of Continuing Education-Outreach, Santiago Canyon College-Umoja Community, District Graphic Communications Office,
LJ Catering, Michelle's Caribbean Flavors, and Dr. Mel Palmer.
Special thanks to the Black History Month Committee!
For more information or to join the U2Scholars and Black History Month (BHM) Committee:
Contact BHM Chair, Tanisha L. Burrus at burrus_tanisha@sac.edu or Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Greg Toya at toya_gregory@sac.edu