Published on Feb. 1, 2021

Hello CASE Scholars and supporters,

As we begin the month of February, it marks what is commonly known as Black History Month, although I believe every month is Black History Month!

I wanted to bring you greetings and to acknowledge and recognize this time where we annually celebrate and commemorate the struggles, stories, accomplishments and achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing the central of Blacks (African Americans) in U.S. History. Through its beginnings as “Negro History Week” this celebration was started by Carter G. Woodson the “ Father of Black History” as an opportunity to “disrupt the official narrative” to teach and learn about the contributions of African Americans. I encourage you all to talk to your friends, family, fellow students and acquaintances to share stories of uplift and social justice in these most difficult time. According to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, the National Theme of the 2021 is “The Black Family: Representation, and Diversity” and is an awesome opportunity to share about Black identities, Black historical accounts, Black perseverance and resistance and Black excellence.

Black History is American History and this year, it is more relevant now more than ever!  For a complete and updated list of Black History Month activities, please visit: https://blackstudies.missouri.edu/black-history-month.

All the best,

E. Andre Thorn, Ph.D
Director, Center for Academic Success and Excellence (CASE)
“Serving Students Since 1995”
110 Student Success Center, 909 Lowry Mall
Columbia, MO  65211
P: 573-882-9208
F: 573-884-4353
www.case.missouri.edu
Indigenous Peoples and Lands Acknowledgement:
I would like to acknowledge that I work in what is colonially known as “Missouri,” and that these were the homelands of the tribal nations of the Nutachi (Missouria), Jiwere (Otoe), Wahzhazhe (Osage), Ogáxpa (Quapaw), Chikasha (Chickasaw), Illini, and Báxoǰe (Ioway), among others.