UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Paul Robeson Cultural Center (PRCC) at Penn State will host a series of events throughout February in celebration of Black History Month. These programs, presented in collaboration with various student organizations, campus and community partners, aim to honor Black history, culture, and achievements while fostering meaningful discussions on identity, mental health, and inclusion.
“Black History Month is a time to recognize and honor the resilience, sacrifices, and achievements of our ancestors in the ongoing fight for freedom and justice,” said Brooklynn Jones, a criminology and psychology student and member of the Black History Month planning committee. “While true equity has yet to be fully realized, their efforts have paved the way for progress, preventing us from being trapped in a cycle of oppression and disenfranchisement. We celebrate Black History Month to preserve their legacy and to inspire future generations to continue the pursuit of justice, equality and lasting change.”
Founded in 1972, the PRCC serves as a vital hub for students at Penn State, providing educational programming, cultural enrichment, transformational experiences, and a brave space that honors the legacy of Paul Robeson — an activist, athlete and artist committed to social justice.
Black History Month Events at PRCC
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Black Women’s Brunch
Noon, Saturday, Feb. 1, Heritage Hall, HUB-Robeson Center
In collaboration with Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., the National Council of Negro Women, the Black Graduate Student Association, and the National Pan-Hellenic Council, this event will kick off Black History Month by celebrating the achievements of African American women, past and present.
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Brother, You’re On My Mind
5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20, Lion’s Lair, 008 HUB-Robeson Center
This program, presented in partnership with the Black Emotions Advocate Team (BEAT) and the Black Male Leadership Symposium (BMLS), will focus on destigmatizing mental health in the Black community. Featuring keynote speaker and Penn State alumnus Johnnie Geathers, the event will explore the importance of mental health awareness and therapy as both a tool and a preventive measure.
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QTPOC Fashion Show
6 p.m. Wednesday , Feb. 26, Alumni Hall
Celebrating Black queer and trans communities, this gender-affirming fashion show will highlight the influence of ballroom culture from the 1970s and 1980s. Participants are encouraged to walk the runway in outfits that express their gender identity with confidence. The event is presented in collaboration with QTPOC.
The PRCC’s Black History Month programming aligns with its mission to create an inclusive and affirming environment for all students. Events are free and open to the Penn State community. Additional Black History Month events and celebrations across all campuses can be found online.
For more information, about the PRCC, a unit in the division of Student Affairs, visit studentaffairs.psu.edu/cultural.