Black History Month Events Archive
Archive of 2022 events
In recognition of Black History Month during February 2022, COCC is honored to welcome speakers and programs that highlight Black triumph. We will celebrate the past and present triumphs of the Black community while continuing our efforts to challenge oppressive systems and strive toward a more equitable future.
The Campus Color Line
Dr. Eddie Cole
Join us for a lecture and discussion with Dr. Eddie Cole
Thursday, February 17
4:00 p.m. PST
Virtual Presentation
Free & Open to the Public
Dr. Eddie R. Cole is Associate Professor of Higher Education and Organizational Change at UCLA. His research focuses on college presidents’ historic role in shaping racial policies and practices both inside and outside of the educational sphere.
This event took place on February 17, 2022.
The Father's Group Film Series Presents:
Whose Streets?
An account of the Ferguson uprising as told by the people who lived it. The filmmakers look at how the killing of 18-year-old Michael Brown inspired a community to fight back and sparked a global movement. The documentary film focuses on seven main characters, particularly Hands Up United’s cofounder Tory Russell, Brittany Ferrell, a nurse and young mother, and David Whitt, a recruiter for civilian organization Cop Watch.
Friday, February 18
6:00-9:00 p.m. Doors Open at 5:30 p.m.
Open Space
220 NE Lafayette Ave
Bend, OR 97701
Get tickets: https://thefathersgroup.org/2022-film-series/
Tickets are $10 per person + fees
Please note that there are a number of tickets set aside for free student entry. If
you are a student and have proof of ID please email info@openspace.studio to reserve a free ticket.
The Fathers Group was founded by several black fathers who were concerned about the experiences their children were having both in school and in the broader community. They met initially to share thoughts, concerns and advice, yet soon realized they needed to take more concrete action to secure our next generation’s future. The Father’s Group is Black-led, but it embraces collaboration and cross-cultural influences, operating not just a group, but also as dedicated individuals who are doing great work in the community in education, business and social services.
Journey of the Drum-Celebration of the Griot
Join us for a presentation, performance, and interactive event with Fode Sylla.
Wednesday, February 23rd
12-1:30 PM PST
Coats Campus Center, Wille Hall
Free & Open to the Public
Traditionally, a Griot is a West African historian, storyteller, praise singer, poet, or musician. The Griot is a repository or oral tradition and is often seen as a leader due to their position as an advisor to royal personages.
During the event, there will be a brief presentation by Marcus LeGrand of the Mande societies and how they served as the history books and preserved their history through songs.
Fode will showcase his traditional West African instrumental skills and lead an interactive drum circle after his performance. If you have a drum you would like to use we encourage you to bring it for the interactive portion of the event.
For more information contact Marcus LeGrand, mlegrand2@cocc.edu, 541.330.4376
Archive of 2021 events
In recognition of Black History Month during February 2021, COCC was honored to welcome MOsley WOtta, Arielle Estoria, and Dr. Doug Luffborough to share stories of Black triumph. Through poetry and storytelling we celebrated the past and present triumphs of the Black community while continuing our efforts to challenge oppressive systems and strive toward a more equitable future. Enjoy video recordings of these past events.
MOsley WOtta
MOsley WOtta is a local spoken word artist and equal rights activist excited to share the power of words in advocating for the support and empowerment in Black and Brown lives in Central Oregon.
February 5, 2021
Video recording of presentation by MOsley WOtta
Arielle Estoria
Arielle Estoria is a renowned poet, author, speaker, and emcee who emphasizes the gift of each individual. Arielle uses her words and storytelling to help others unlock their gifts and find beauty in themselves.
February 12, 2021
Video recording of presentation by Arielle Estoria
Dr. Doug Luffborough
Dr. Doug Luffborough (Dr. Luff) overcame fatherlessness, homelessness, and unjust
systems to be the first in his family to attend college. Chosen by his class at Northeastern
University to be the commencement speaker, he thoroughly impressed one attendee in
particular, President Bill Clinton. President Clinton invited Dr. Luff and his mother
to the White House where he promised to write a letter of recommendation for Luff's
application to a Harvard Graduate program. Dr. Luff then went on to the University
of San Diego where he received his Ph.D. in Leadership studies.
February 23, 2021
Video recording of presentation by Dr. Doug Luffborough
For more information contact Marcus Legrand, COCC's Afrocentric Program Coordinator at mlegrand2@cocc.edu.