Black History Month keynote speech rescheduled for Feb. 21
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – The Black History Month keynote speech has been rescheduled for 7 p.m. Feb. 21 at Purdue University's Fowler Hall, in Stewart Center. The speech by Ta-Nehisi Coates, senior editor of Atlantic magazine, was originally scheduled for Feb. 1 but was canceled due to the snow recess at Purdue.
Coates will share his personal story about reclaiming the narrative of African-Americans and the American Civil War. Coates started a Civil War research circle and book club, and is the author of the memoir, "A Beautiful Struggle." His speech is free and open to the public.
The role of African-Americans in the war, which began 150 years ago, is being examined by Purdue's Black Cultural Center this year. The center is joining the Association for the Study of African American Life and History in urging Americans to study and reflect on African-American contributions and sacrifices during the Civil War.
The public is invited to come to the BCC, 1100 Third St., West Lafayette, to view a replica of the bronze sculpture, "The Spirit of Freedom," by Ed Hamilton. The African American Civil War Memorial is dedicated to more than 200,000 African-Americans who served during the Civil War and fought for freedom.
The BCC is co-sponsoring another Black History Month event at 7 p.m. Feb. 26 in Stewart Center, Room 302. "Black Purdue," a documentary film that explores the African-American presence at Purdue beginning in 1894, will be shown. Following the film, audience members will participate in a Black History Month trivia game show called "THINKFAST." The winning team will be awarded a $500 cash prize. The Purdue Black Alumni Organization is a co-sponsor.
Writer: Greg McClure, 765-496-9711, gmcclure@purdue.edu
Source: Renee Thomas, 765-494-3091, rathomas@purdue.edu