Mercer Times

The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) is set to commence its annual Black History Month celebration on January 29, 2025. The event will start at 11 a.m. with the raising of the Pan-African flag outside Trenton Hall. Representatives from TCNJ’s Black Student Union (BSU), NAACP chapter, and other groups will participate in the opening ceremony.

This year's theme, "Evolution of Black Generations," aims to celebrate and educate about the impact of Black and African American culture through history and into the future. Naia Moore, president of BSU; Tara Richardson, vice president of BSU; and Tacquice Wiggan Davis, interim vice president for inclusive excellence, are among those scheduled to speak at the flag-raising event. Sy’Maya Summiel, president of TCNJ NAACP, will also be present alongside Robert Scott, who will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black National Anthem.

Throughout February, various events organized by TCNJ's BSU and other student groups will take place on campus. Highlights include a teach-in with Professor Piper Kendrix Williams from African American Studies and English departments; a culinary event hosted by BSU in collaboration with TCNJ Dining featuring special menus at Eickhoff Hall and the 1855 Room; and a guest lecture by Sahar Aziz from Rutgers University.

The college invites all community members to join these activities. More information can be found on the full calendar of events provided by organizers.

The series is managed by the Black History Month Planning Committee along with coordination from TCNJ's Division of Inclusive Excellence, BSU, and African American Studies department. Events are open to everyone unless specified otherwise.