In celebration of Black History Month, UCA has organized a number of events to give students and the local community an entertaining and exciting way to celebrate the history of African-American culture in the US. Students here at UCA and members of the community have been given a unique opportunity. Though Black History month has been designated every February for 36 years, people aren’t often exposed to the vast amout of events UCA is offering aimed at recognizing outstanding blacks and the contributions they have made to society, as well as celebrating black culture. Students should take advantage of the events offered this month, regardless of race. After all, Black History Month is for every person, not just the black community. Kicking off the 12 events is “The Color of My Skin,” a program aimed at raising awareness about how the color of one’s skin can affect one’s life, and discusses society’s expectations of beauty. Other events will include Distinguished Lecturer Spike Lee, a man who has been credited with revolutionizing the role of black actors in film. It is an amazing opportunity for everyone, not just black students, to see someone of this caliber speaking on our campus. Lee’s “Bamboozled” will also be shown later in the week. Other events span a variety of topics, including the Little Rock Central High School segregation, H.I.V., cervical cancer awareness, and jazz music. Each events should interest a large group of students. Another highlight of the month will be the appearance of Miss Arkansas Alyse Eady, who was just named first runner-up in the 2011 Miss America pageant. She will be at the Miss Essence Pageant, which is being held by Students for the Propagation of Black Culture, SGA, and Minority Student Services. The importance of Black History Month is something that is bigger than the black community. Black history is American history, and it is something that should be learned, respected and celebrated by every American, regarless of race. Every bit of black history, from slavery, emancipation and civil rights to the United States’ first black president, affects every American in innumerable ways. Students at UCA have been given a rare opportunity: they can take part in a great number of events celebrating Black History Month and black culture, with the chance to hear living legends on their very own campus. All students should take advantage of the events this month, because it is not just a celebration of black history, but American history.