"Our goal is to no longer have a Black History Month," said Professor Stan Breckenridge, musicologist in the Department of Afro-Ethnic Studies, who strongly feels that a majority of African-Americans efforts and achievements have been belittled by society. "I hope that contributions of African-American people are being learned every month because they are embedded in everyday life."

All throughout the month of February, CSUF's African-American Resource Center and the professors in the department of Afro-Ethnic Studies honor Black History Month in hopes of conveying awareness to African-American history and culture to the students on campus.

The AARC hosts multiple events on campus to promote Black History Month. This year, the theme is "The Civil War and the Struggles for Black Determination."

"I think this month is a great time for students to come and get a taste of black culture on campus," said Chuntel Riser, coordinator of the AARC on campus.

From Feb. 20 to 22, the on-campus members of AARC enforce Black Consciousness Week. Throughout that week, events such as The AARC Mixer, Black Movie Day and Black Student Black Organizations Expo are open to all students and take place simply to bring awareness on African-American culture to the campus community.

"African American Resource Center (AARC) works with the black student leaders on campus to compile a list of events that will highlight Black History Month every year," Riser said.

Sunday's Best is another event held by the AARC, in which students can showcase their singing abilities at the gospel talent show. The event is scheduled for Feb. 22 in the Titan Theatre from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Students must RSVP by Feb. 22 to participate.

On Feb. 23 the AARC along with Black Student Union will host the event "What Black History Month Means to Me." For this event, students may display their feelings and emotions about what Black History month means to them on the Reflection Wall located in H-222.

Also, in honor of black women who have contributed to society, Alliance for the Preservation of African Consciousness is hosting their fourth-annual "Why I Love Black Women" event on Feb. 24 at the TSU Pavilion AB at 8:30 p.m. The night will celebrate black women and their efforts to change the world.

In addition to participation in the events, students also have the opportunity to plan and get more involved with the AARC.

"Students can join Black History Month committees on campus as well as asking their professors to allow them to complete a project on Black History Month," said Julie Stokes, department chair of Afro-Ethnic Studies.

Professors in the Department of Afro-Ethnic Studies believe Black History Month at CSUF is a way to honor, celebrate and understand the lives of the people who contributed in the influence of the Civil Rights movement.

"Events taking place on campus reinforce the pride in my heritage. It is a continuous reminder of the legacy of those who came before me who were able to break down barriers, thus allowing many African-Americans greater opportunities to participate in the U.S. society and the world," Stokes said.