Activist, producer and actor Danny Glover to speak at UCSD’S Black History Month Scholarship Brunch

The University of California, San Diego is honoring African-American history throughout February with events including art exhibits, lectures, film screenings, spoken word performances and the annual Black History Month Scholarship Brunch, featuring special guest speaker Danny Glover, a renowned filmmaker, actor and activist. This year’s Black History Month theme “Hallowed Ground: Sites of African-American Memory” is dedicated to the significant physical places that have inspired diversity and positive change in African-American history, such as the Apollo Theater, Little Rock Central High School, Tuskegee University and others.

“UC San Diego’s commemoration of Black History Month unites faculty, staff, students and community members to recognize the history and contributions of African-Americans throughout U.S. history,” said Chancellor Pradeep K. Khosla. “This important campus tradition is about celebration, education and inspiration.”

Ticket proceeds from the Black History Month Scholarship Brunch will enable ambitious and motivated students to attend UC San Diego. Keynote speaker Glover is well known for his roles as Detective Sergeant Roger Murtaugh in the “Lethal Weapon” film series. Other film credits include “The Color Purple,” “Silverado,” “Angels in the Outfield,” “Dreamgirls” and “Shooter.” He has also gained respect for his wide-reaching community activism and philanthropic efforts. Internationally, Glover has served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program from 1998 to 2004. In 2005, he co-founded Louverture Films, which is dedicated to the development and production of films of historical relevance, social purpose, commercial value and artistic integrity.

The scholarship brunch raises funds to support students who are committed to diversity on campus, involved in the study of African-American history and culture, and contribute significantly to their overall academic experience through research and community participation. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available. Learn more about UC San Diego’s Black History Month Scholarship Brunch here.

“Black History Month events offer opportunities for the campus to provide programs and resources that increase understanding and awareness of social justice,” said Becky Petitt, vice chancellor for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at UC San Diego. “This is a critical time to reflect on important events and courageous individuals who, throughout U.S. history, have broken barriers in the fight for equality.”
Event highlights for UC San Diego’s 2016 Black History Month celebration include the following, all coordinated by the Black History Month Planning Committee; event details can be found at blackhistorymonth.ucsd.edu.

 Black History Month is a federally recognized, nationwide celebration that provides the opportunity for all Americans to reflect on the significant roles that African-Americans have played in the shaping of U.S. history.