By Elizabeth Pierdominici

This month the University celebrates the history and contributions of the black community through cultural events and exhibitions that allow students, faculty and the local community to engage in Black History Month.

Black History Month is a nationally recognized period of reflection and learning that highlights the struggles, accomplishments and impacts of the black community to the historical and cultural development of America. The origin of this commemorative month is firmly rooted in the merging of cultures, societies and politics that has evolved into the present state of America.

The Joan and Donald E. Axinn Library, Cultural Center and Africana Studies Program, are among the hosts of a variety of programs that seek to promote appreciation for the history of the black community and awareness about current and forthcoming issues.

“First of all, I hope that students and faculty will get some insight into unfamiliar cultures,” Paul Glassman, assistant dean for reference services and collection development, said. “Secondly, for those who are a part of the African-American community, may they be able to share their experiences and what is important to them with others.”

Students and faculty will have the opportunity to learn about African-American literature during readings and book discussions on Feb. 23 in the Axinn library. A book exhibition entitled, “African-American Genealogy: Searching for Our Roots” will offer resources for those of African-American decent to search their genealogy and discover their ancestral past.

“Last year, students gained knowledge along with a sense that Hofstra encourages them to express themselves,” Glassman said. “Students who shared, were welcomed and respected by their peers.”

Students who are members of the National Society of Black Engineers and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity have a hand in organizing the events.

Jermaine Smith, senior political science and finance major and president of Alpha Phi Alpha, shares his brotherhood with civil rights pioneers Martin Luther King Jr. and Thurgood Marshall, both of whom are affiliated with his fraternity. In spirit of these revolutionaries, Smith urges his peers to become involved with the events this month.

“Since 1980, our fraternity’s goal is to enlighten the University that Black History is beyond one month of each year,” he said. “Students need to understand the problems that minorities face and realize that the struggle is far from over – it has just begun.”

The University will extend itself to prominent members of the local community to speak at the “Black Politics: Life after the Vote” on Feb. 16 in the Student Center Theater. Guests will include Hempstead Mayor James Garner, Congressman Gregory W. Meeks and former New York City Mayor David Dinkins, to analyze and discuss the recent presidential election.

“These cultural events have become very appreciated by the students and faculty,” Elena Cevallos, a member of the reference faculty at the Axinn Library, said. “It brings the students and faculty together in an academic pursuit outside of the classroom, in a manner that an academic community should act.”

A display can be viewed on the main floor of the Axinn Library for the duration of the month and more information about upcoming events is available in the Cultural Center.

Students of African-American desent will have the opportunity to look through research material and trace their genealogy. (Tara Conry/The Chronicle)