AACC joins the community in celebration of this year’s Black History Month with the theme Black Joy: The healing power of love and connectedness, holistic self-care and the extent to which Black joy and self-love are revolutionary given all the historic and contemporary trauma impacting our lives.
“Black Joy”
Pascal Center for Performing Arts Gallery
Exhibit Hours
Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Exhibit Reception
Wednesday, Feb. 26
2-4 p.m.
Don’t miss the exhibit, “BHM 2025: Black Joy, an Agent of Change” in Truxal Library. Guests also may visit the physical display near the second-floor entrance.
Make A Statement: With an emphasis on accessories, use your individual sense of style and fashion to make a strong political or social statement.
Paying Homage: Attire should pay homage to an iconic Black music legend who shaped the music industry.
Afrocentric Style: Pull out your vibrant prints, headwraps, statement jewelry or modern takes on African attire.
Say It Loud: Wear your favorite Black History Month graphic T-shirt paired with denim.
Discover how stereotype threat impacts career opportunities and professional growth. This interactive session will explore strategies for overcoming challenges and fostering self-confidence in the workplace.
2:30-4 p.m.
CRSC Room 209
BHM culturally specific recipes: Rooted Rotisserie (food demonstration), sponsored by HCAT.
11 a.m., HUM Room 218
Pick up BHM culturally specific recipes: Sweet Potatoes Cheesecake Beurre, sale sponsored by HCAT.
Noon-2 p.m.
SUN 120 Hawk's Nest Grill and Deli
Get moving with a lively and fun line dance demonstration! Learn the steps to popular dances and celebrate unity through movement and rhythm.
Sponsored by AACC Black Male Institute/SASP
Noon-1 p.m.
HLSB 145
Ciera Butts, a former pageant queen who has held the title of Miss Maryland United States (2013) and Miss District of Columbia USA (2014), hosts an interactive two-hour confidence masterclass. The first hour focuses on mindset and mental readiness. The second hour focuses on runway confidence. Learn more about the event on the Nest.
1-3 p.m.
HUM Room 112
Learn the cultural tradition, rules and strategies of the game of spades. Learn more on the Nest.
Noon-1 p.m.
HLSB Room 220
Workshop: Discuss cultural connections, share stories and celebrate Black identity through meaningful dialogue and shared experiences.
2-3:30 p.m.
HLSB Room 145A
"NEGRITA," the debut documentary by director Magdalena Albizu, examines cultural prejudices and assumptions about the lives of Afro-Latina women in America. As a self-described negrita, Albizu delves into the ingrained ideology of anti-Blackness, exposing how both American and Latino cultures sustain a false narrative that frames Blackness as an undesirable otherness. "NEGRITA" draws from the director's personal history to shed light on the broader shared experiences within Black and Latin communities. Following the screening, the director will engage in a post-show Q&A moderated by interculturalist scholar Dr. Clarissa Williams, associate professor at the College of Southern Maryland, to discuss her process of embracing her African history and her family's struggle to accept her journey. Refreshments will be provided by AACC’s Hotel, Culinary Arts and Tourism Institute.
Sponsored by AACC Black History Month, AACC Women’s History Month and AACC’s Office of Student Engagement
HLSB 100
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
This four-part/chapter docuseries supports and uplifts Black men and encourages more discussion about self-care, health, love, joy, etc. Each chapter lasts four or five minutes.