DURANGO, Colo. – Few things bring people together like cooking a meal, sharing a table, and moving to the rhythm of familiar beats. At Fort Lewis College, students have been doing just that during Black History Month—connecting through food, music, and culture in celebrations that highlight both the richness of Black heritage and the intersections between different communities on campus.
The Black Student Union, Black Student Resource Center, Native American Center, and El Centro de Muchos Colores hosted a series of events where students came together to cook, dance, and reflect on the traditions that shape their identities. Through these gatherings, they found common ground while appreciating the unique elements that each culture brings to the table.
One of the most well-attended events, the BSU & NAC Frybread and Fried Chicken Social, saw over 120 students gathering at the NAC to enjoy a meal of frybread, fried chicken, and mac and cheese. Originally planned for about 40 people, the event quickly grew into a packed house, reinforcing how food serves as a bridge between cultures.
“We wanted to bring people together through food,” said BSU President Elijah Smith, a junior engineering major. “Black History Month is about celebrating culture, and what better way than by sharing meals and music?”
Another highlight was Sazon & Soul, a collaboration between BSRC and El Centro, where students explored the deep cultural ties between Black and Latin communities. The event featured Afro-Latin music, dance, and a feast of rice and beans, Nigerian suya, candied yams, and agua fresca—all cooked together by students.
“There are so many areas where our cultures overlap,” said Siarrah Gomez-Boyiddle, assistant director of El Centro. “We celebrated that through Afro-Latin music, salsa, bachata, and even a limbo game just for fun. Our students cooked together, tried new foods, and created a space of hospitality that is central to both cultures.”
The event provided students a chance to relax, connect, and experience cultural traditions they may not have encountered before.
“One of our students made tres leches cake, and another brought suya, an African-spiced chicken skewer that was incredible,” Gomez-Boyiddle added. “It reminded me of how 麻豆免费高清无砖码区is a mix of so many cultures coming together to create something beautiful.”
These events are part of FLC’s broader celebration of Black History Month, which continues with upcoming programs, including Trailblazers: Stories from Black Alumni on Feb. 13, the Black History Month Basketball Games on Feb. 20, and the Night of Black Excellence on Feb. 28. Organizers hope these gatherings will continue to foster deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse communities that make up FLC.
“As we reflect on the immense contributions of African American leaders and freedom fighters throughout history, we are reminded that Black history is American history,” said in a letter to campus Heather Shotton, vice president of Diversity Affairs and acting dean of Student Engagement. “These events honor the experiences, brilliance, leadership, and contributions of our Black community members at Fort Lewis College.”
RELATED: Visit FLC’s Black History Month page