To the Editor:

Re: “What Black History Month Assumes,” Opinion, Feb. 8

In his column the author sadly ignored the wealth of cultural, educational, social and culinary events hosted by students and university groups throughout February when he incorrectly stated that, “Black History Month has been advertised only with a special themed dinner at North Star with ‘Ham Hocks and Collard Greens’ and ‘Deep Fried Southern Ribs’.”

In addition to the many speakers, film series and performances occurring on campus this month, Cornell Dining, in cooperation with the West Campus House System and Black Students United (BSU), is hosting eight special dinners to celebrate Black History Month, including a dinner at Cook House Dining Room featuring “African Continental” cuisine, a dinner at Rose House Dining Room featuring Ethiopian cuisine, a dinner at Keeton House Dining Room featuring Caribbean cuisine and a dinner at North Star featuring “New South” cuisine. Other examples of Black History Month events across campus include the Ujamaa Film Series, a poetry reading and a performance by Akuma Roots Reggae Band at Keeton House, a lecture at Becker House by Cornell Africana Studies director Professor Salah Hassan and a discussion at Bethe House exploring the impact of Islam on Black culture, hosted by BSU, the Prison Activist Group and the Muslim Educational and Cultural Association.

Throughout Cornell’s long history of celebrating Black History Month, countless students have organized and participated in events designed to honor the vital role black people have taken in our shared American heritage. I hope that the author takes the time to explore the many opportunities available to him on campus this Black History Month.

Marty Rauker, Interim Assistant Vice President for Student and Academic Services and Campus Life