'Every individual has a calling, and they deserve recognition'

Students at Black Arts Explosion event — Victoria Santos sells tarot card necklaces at the Black Arts Explosion in Dana Commons.

Student voices

The Men of Color Alliance creates “a space of spirit; a space of camaraderie.”

Clark launched its celebration of Black History Month with the Black Arts Explosion, a Feb. 3 event featuring wares, art, music, and more created by students and local vendors.

“I think it’s important to highlight Black art and Black voices because they have been ignored and overshadowed for too long. Every individual has a calling, and they deserve recognition,” says Ethan Wellington ’24, the vice president of the Black Student Union and a political science major.

Clark’s Black History Month celebration includes a slate of events such as panels, pop-ups, and presentations, each representing the theme “Exploring Passion and Purpose: Cultivating Our Craft.”

“To me, this theme honors those throughout Black history — and even today — who have not been given an opportunity to find a passion or purpose,” says Wellington. “We hope our events showcase and honor the diverse passions of the Black community.”

The campuswide celebration and programs are led by the Black Student Union, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Identity, Student Engagement, and Access, Community Engagement and Volunteering, Goddard Library, the Student Alumni Relations Committee, and more.

Students at Black Arts Explosion event