Communities and campuses across the nation are coming together in February to celebrate the culture and contributions of blacks for Black History Month. On Iowa State’s campus, the celebration has already begun.

This month, the calendar is full of events, activities and food for people to enjoy in recognition of black history. Japannah Kellogg, interim director of multicultural student affairs and program coordinator for the Dean of Students Office, said Black History Month isn’t just for blacks. Kellogg said other ethnic groups can benefit from understanding of black history and culture.

“As I look at the state of Iowa and Iowa State University, I would hope the majority [of] white students take an opportunity to celebrate Black History Month, along with understanding,” Kellogg said.

Kellogg discussed the modest beginnings of Black History Month and how it grew from the week-long event created by a black Harvard graduate into the month-long tribute it is today.

“This tribute dates back to 1926 and is credited to a Harvard scholar named Carter G. Woodson,” Kellogg said. “The son of former slaves, Woodson dedicated his life to ensuring that black history was accurately documented and disseminated.”

Woodson saw the need for an annual event to remember those who have contributed to the black culture and the struggle for equal rights.

“In an effort to bring national attention to the contributions of black Americans, Woodson organized the first annual Negro History Week,” Kellogg said. “He chose the second week of February in honor of the birthdays of pivotal black supporters Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.”

Dimar Brown, senior in political science and president of the Black Student Alliance, said Black History Month is an opportunity “to increase cultural awareness, not just across campus, but across the world.”

Brown said whenever there is a diverse group or community it is important to celebrate those differences.

“Within this country, there are several different cultures. It shows people that you can live in multiple cultures; you can adapt,” Brown said.

Brown said Black History Month is an important opportunity to remember his heritage and appreciate the sacrifices his ancestors made to take steps toward freedom and equality.

“You don’t want to lose your roots as an African-American,” Brown said. “It’s always good to revisit them as often as possible to make sure that you can keep it going on from generation to generation.”

The Black Student Alliance is working to organize and help out with several of the Black History Month events, including the rededication of the Black Cultural Center.

“The most important event for me is on Valentine’s Day when we open up the Black Cultural Center. That will probably be the biggest event this year,” Brown said.

He has worked to tell others of the valuable services that a Black Cultural Center can provide. As one of the last students to have a chance to use the facility before the renovations, Brown had a difficult time conveying the vital importance of the cultural center to those who have never been there, but he felt it was a very important piece of his culture.

“The re-opening of the cultural center is a chance to not only reinforce Black History, but it makes history within itself,” Brown said.