The national theme for Black History Month 2025 is "African Americans and Labor." This year, the University of Pittsburgh will celebrate the accomplishments of six individuals who have made contributions to the Pittsburgh community through their paid and unpaid labor and who have demonstrated their commitment to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion across the Pittsburgh region.
6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2024
Connolly Ballroom, Alumni Hall
Seven members of the Pitt community — a few with familiar names, others not so well-known — will be recognized for their volunteerism and commitment to equality and justice during the University’s annual K. Leroy Irvis Black History Month celebration.
Six of the honorees were nominated by members of the Pitt community and their names were selected from more than 50 entrees.
Tickets are free, but an RSVP is requested.
Six members of the Pitt and Pittsburgh communities — a few with familiar names, others not so well-known — will be recognized for their commitment to equality and justice during the University’s annual K. Leroy Irvis Black History Month celebration.
Nominations are now being accepted through Feb. 5 from the public in seven categories:
- Aspiring Ally: Recognizes an individual new to DEIA work who actively supports inclusion within their community or at the university.
- Social Justice Advocate: Honors an individual dedicated to addressing systemic inequities and advancing social justice efforts.
- Creative Changemaker: Celebrates a staff member who transforms the culture of DEIA at the university or community through innovative approaches.
- Inspiring Leader: Recognizes a graduate/professional student leading DEIA initiative within the student body, serving as a role model in DEIA work.
- Campus Leader: Recognizes an undergraduate student who demonstrates a strong commitment to DEIA within the campus community and leads by example among their peers.
- Alumni Advocate: Honors a University of Pittsburgh alumnus who has continued to champion DEIA principles beyond their time on campus, making a significant impact in their professional or community life.
- Faculty Champion: Recognizes a faculty member at the University of Pittsburgh who has shown exceptional dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable educational environment.
Events that include art, music, dance, and literature are being held across the Pittsburgh campus in celebration of Black History Month beginning in Feb 2025. A sampling of events include:
Black History Month Kickoff
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Monday, Feb. 3
Lower Lounge, William Pitt Union
RSVP
Faces of Diversity: Exploring the Black Diaspora
7 to 9 p.m.
Wednesday, Feb. 12
Lower Lounge, William Pitt Union
The Black diaspora encompasses a wide range of experiences and identities, and this program will serve as a unique opportunity for all students to broaden their understanding and appreciation of these diverse cultures. By focusing on food, music, and storytelling, the Office of Inclusion and Belonging aims to create a dynamic, interactive experience that highlights the shared history and unique contributions of African American, African, Caribbean, Latin American, and other Black communities.
“Mal Goode Reporting“ Reception
4 to 6 p.m.
Thursday, Feb. 13
Dining Room, O'Hara Student Center
RSVP
Envisioning a Just Pittsburgh Exhibition
Opening and Awards Reception
6 to 9 p.m.
Thursday, Feb 20
August Wilson African American Cultural Center
980 Liberty Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
RSVP
Opening ceremony for the collaborative art competition that launched in June 2023 by Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, the University of Pittsburgh, and in community partnership with 1Hood Media and the August Wilson African American Cultural Center.
Open Mic Night: Black History Month
8 to 10 p.m.
Thursday, Feb. 20
The Understory (B-50), Cathedral of Learning
RSVP
For this special Black History Month open mic, the Center for Creativity is partnering with the Black Action Society to celebrate the work and raise up the voices of Black creators. All Pitt students, faculty, and staff and all performance-based genres are welcome: original music or covers; poetry, storytelling, and spoken word; dance, skits or monologues. Performance slots are limited; registration welcome but not required.
