Story by: Juliana Dubois, Staff Writer
Photo Illustrated by: Juliana Dubois, Staff Writer
Cypress College is honoring Black History Month with a series of student-run events designed to foster learning, connection, and community building. One of the highlighted events will be a screening of the Oscar-nominated documentary I Am Not Your Negro on Tuesday, February 24, from 5-7:30 p.m. in Building 6, Room 216. The film will explore the history of racism in America, with a focus on major civil rights figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
Danielle Dancer, a community liaison officer for the Black Faculty and Staff Association at Cypress College, encourages both students and staff to attend the event. “These events create meaningful opportunities for learning, connection, and community building,” Dancer said. “They allow us to honor Black History in a way that goes beyond textbooks, through lived experiences, storytelling, and shared celebration.”
Released in 2016, I Am Not Your Negro takes an in-depth look at racism’s evolution in America, highlighting key moments and figures in the civil rights movement. Dancer emphasized that attending such events helps strengthen cultural awareness, encourages dialogue, and supports a more inclusive campus environment.
Cypress College has more events lined up to continue the celebration of Black History Month. On February 24, 2026, the campus will host the Day of Expression, an open-mic event designed as an interactive, creative space for students and attendees to showcase their talents or express themselves. This event will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Visual and Performing Arts Division.
Additionally, a Black Panther 60th Anniversary Panel Discussion will be held on February 26, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. to commemorate the founding of the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense in 1966. This panel will provide a space for discussion on the history and legacy of the Black Panther Party and its impact on civil rights and social justice movements.
These events provide opportunities for students to engage with Black History Month in a meaningful and interactive way, helping foster a more inclusive and culturally aware campus community.
