New Mexico State University’s Black Programs will celebrate Black History Month by hosting six events throughout February and March. The celebration will feature discussions on the evolution of hip-hop, mental health in the Black community as well as an African dance troop and Sarah Joyner, Miss Georgia USA 2019 who is a 2017 NMSU alumna.
Acting co-directors of Black Programs Patrick Turner and Kimberly York agree that their standout event will be “Let’s Talk About It! Addressing Suicide and Mental Health in the Black Community.”
“As a licensed independent clinical therapist, I believe it is important to spread a compassionate message throughout our community that it is ok to talk about issues of sadness, depression, and those kinds of things, because mental health is a component of overall health.” York said.
“Historically speaking, we just don’t talk about those things, so we are going to be sharing information with students to bring awareness and support by providing a safe space and opportunities for them to ask questions and when needed help them get connected to counseling services on campus.”
Sarah Joyner, Miss Georgia USA 2019 and an NMSU social work alumna, will return to campus Feb. 13 to meet and share her journey with NMSU students. Joyner promotes a platform of cultural awareness and cultural sensitivity. As a social worker for refugee students, she works to educate school administrators and faculty, community members and other non-profit organizations on the importance of being culturally aware and culturally sensitive towards all people.
“I think it’s always great to bring back alumni, especially alums who are close to the age of current students. They’re able to see someone who received their education from NMSU and was able to compete on different levels,” Turner said. “Often times students keep themselves isolated to New Mexico or the surrounding areas. So, it’s great for students to have a conversation with someone about things they’ve learned since graduating, things they wish they had learned and things that NMSU has taught them.”
Outside of these events, the Black Student Association will be participating in community service projects and partnering with Lynn Community Middle School to do cultural presentations and activities and to help Las Cruces Public Schools launch a district-wide black history celebration. They will also be honoring Doris Hamilton, the first black principal in New Mexico.
Following is a list of the Black History events being held in February:
Wednesday, Feb. 12, 8 ¬–11 p.m.
“1520 Sedgwick Ave. The Evolution of Hip-Hop”
Corbett Center Ballroom
Wednesday, Feb. 19, 6 –10 p.m.
“The New Negro Movement: Harlem Renaissance Experience”
Corbett Center Ballroom
Friday, Feb. 21, 5:30 –7:30 p.m.
“Creative Expression: Exploration of Music, Art, Dance and the African American Experience”
Rentfrow Hall, Dance Studio 103A
Wednesday, March 11, 6 – 8 p.m.
“Black Student Speak Out!”
Location: TBA
Friday, March 20, 6 – 8 p.m.
“Let’s Talk About It! Addressing Suicide and Mental Health in the Black Community”
Black Programs Study Lounge in Garcia Center, Room 135
For more information, call NMSU Black Programs at 575-646-4208.