The University of Chicago is hosting a series of events to celebrate Black History Month 2025, honoring the legacy of Georgiana Simpson and other Black scholars. Simpson was the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. at an American university in 1921, despite facing challenges such as being forced off campus due to protests by white students.
UChicago's events aim to recognize and discuss the contributions of Black scholars, artists, and leaders. The lineup includes a production of Lorraine Hansberry’s "A Raisin in the Sun" at the Court Theatre. Gabrielle Randle-Bent, Senior Artistic Producer, brings this historic play about Chicago’s South Side in the 1950s to life.
On February 3rd, historian Larry McClellan will deliver a lecture on freedom seekers and the Underground Railroad in Illinois. This event is co-hosted by the League of Women Voters Of Chicago, UChicago Library, and Seminary Co-op.
The Annual Earl B. Dickerson Lecture on February 4th will feature Karen Freeman-Wilson, former Mayor of Gary, Indiana, discussing advocacy for Black communities. The same day, a panel discussion titled "Walls Are Witnesses" will explore Black Chicagoans' impact on social and political landscapes.
Other events include discussions on race and education policy with Bettina L. Love on February 5th and a documentary premiere about Muddy Waters at Logan Center for the Arts on February 6th.
February 12th features Rev. Veronica Johnson speaking at a lunchtime lecture hosted by the Divinity School. On February 17th, interactive activities aimed at preserving history will be held at Gary Comer Youth Center.
The celebration continues with "Black History Month: Rooted in Resilience," organized by UChicago Dining along with student organizations OBS and ACSA on February 18th. This event highlights Black culinary traditions.
Alexia Williams from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign will speak about religion's role in racial identity formation on February 19th during another lunchtime lecture hosted by the Divinity School.
The AAAC Social Justice Talk takes place later that day at Crown Family School focusing on current racial justice issues. Nedra Sims Fears will discuss urban innovation related to economic development at Mansueto Institute for Urban Innovation on February 21st.
Finally, UCABA hosts a mixer celebrating contributions made by Black individuals globally on February 21st.