February is Black History Month, a time when we turn more attention to the peoples and events marking the tragedies and triumphs which make up African American history which is American history. Many of you may be familiar with “The Gateway to Freedom” monument that stands in downtown Detroit’s Hart Plaza to commemorate the Underground Railroad. This life-size sculpture created by Edward Dwight features seven freedom seekers. Some look across the Detroit River to Canada. Others peer back toward Detroit. Together, they represent sankofa, the Ghanian idea of looking to the past in order to understand the present and move towards the future. This practice animates the first step of radical hospitality, remembering.
This month we are called to remember and practice sankofa. Across campus and Detroit, there are many events that reflect on the centrality of African Americans to our shared experience and history. Here are a few resources for learning more: the Black Abolitionist Archive directed by Professor of History Roy Finkenbine, The Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion directed by Kristin Johnson, and the African American Studies program directed by Associate Professor of History Justin Williams. Consider inviting students to learn about minoring in African American Studies and attending the events included in this newsletter.
As we look back this month, let us come together to envision how we can continue to build our inclusive community of belonging committed to anti-racism, equity and social justice.