Celebrating Black History Month on campus and in the city
From on-campus celebrations to musical performances and hidden thrift—here’s 28 ways to celebrate Black history every day this February.
Photography by Lily Sones/The Barnard Bulletin
February 6, 2024
This year, Barnard College celebrates a significant milestone — 100 years of Black students at the institution, beginning with Zora Neale Hurston’s enrollment in 1925. The Barnard Organization of Soul and Solidarity (B.O.S.S.) Senior Advisor Tomisin Fasosin (BC ‘25) reflected on the significance of this anniversary coinciding with Black History Month. “With history comes connection,” she said. “Talking about our history and sharing our history is very important — not only to remember but because history fosters a connection to the past.”
Fasosin’s words highlight the importance of recognizing the past to strengthen the campus community, and B.O.S.S. is embracing this mission in unique ways.
“We’re working towards a Barnard Alumni Panel,” Fasosin shared, an event designed to provide a platform for B.O.S.S. alumni to offer career advice to students. The panel is scheduled for February 21, 2025 from 2:00-3:15 p.m. at the Beyond Barnard Office. Additionally, B.O.S.S. will host its second annual Black History Month Lunch, featuring a spread of “African American soul food and diasporic foods” in collaboration with Barnard Dining.
Destiney Radford (CC '26), Co-President of Columbia's Black Student Organization (BSO), shared another perspective on how Black History Month connects generations by linking past and present struggles.
With the entry of this recent administration, Radford sees this year’s celebration of Black History as a realignment with truth. “It’s even more vital for us to shift our focus to Black Americans and how they have been the backbone in this country for years and years to come,” she said. Radford's comments underscore the importance of embracing the truth embedded in this month's history, recognizing the ongoing efforts to suppress it, and stressing the need to confront these issues directly.
Even more than that, Radford explained, “It’s also about the importance of Black resilience and Black achievements.” She emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach to discussions about Black History Month.“Black joy is almost shied away from when it comes to topics like this,” she said, which is why the organization “has really focused, this year in general, on emphasizing Black joy.”
BSO plans to hold club meetings throughout February centered around themes like a “Hip-Hop Hangout,” an end-of-the-month panel highlighting the personhood and achievements of Black alumni and prominent figures in the community, and collaborative unity events with the broader Black organizations on campus.
So, how can all Barnard students — rooted in Harlem, with New York City as our backyard — celebrate the lives and legacies of Black Americans this month? Fasosin finds the answer to this question in gathering with friends and enjoying the vibrant restaurants in Little Senegal in Harlem. Radford is immersing herself in the autobiographical works of Black thought leaders like Malcolm X.
What could it look like for you? Here are some recommendations:
Blacked Out Party
As the name suggests, come in your best all-black fit to kick off the first weekend of the month with Columbia’s Black History Month Committee. The event takes place February 7 with doors letting partygoers in at 10 p.m. The party will be at Kappa Delta Rho (KDR) — 548 W 114th Street — with sounds by Sayf and Samad. Drinks will be provided for free to those interested before midnight. Early bird tickets are $3, general admission tickets start at $5, and late admission tickets are available at $7. Get your tickets here!
Visit the Free Black Women’s Library
The vast catalog of Black femme scholarship is a treasure trove of knowledge, creativity, and empowerment that is rarely highlighted nationally — which is where this Brooklyn-based organization comes in. With over 5500 books available, The Free Black Women’s Library provides free public programs, film screenings, Sunday book swaps, and so much more! If you’re unable to visit the store in person, consider donating to this worthy social art project through this link.
Blacklist Presents: Buy Black Market
On Saturday, February 15, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Blacklist will host a vibrant marketplace featuring a variety of Black-owned businesses. Attendees can shop for goods ranging from jewelry to card games, with food and drinks also available. The event will take place in Chelsea at Pier 57, and you can click here to RSVP!
Catch a fitness class at Harlem Cycle
As the first and only indoor cycling studio in the Harlem area, Harlem Cycle is run by Tammeca Rochester who saw a need and fulfilled it! Get your sweat on with the 80-minute Spin Cycle class or the 60-minute Hip Hop bike class. See the other classes offered on their page!
Thrift at Trintage
A black family-owned business that features trendy clothes and vintage pieces, hence the name Trintage! In-store, you’ll find refreshments as you shop and walls decorated with Polaroid pictures from past shoppers, a lovely tradition incorporated by the staff. The boutique is located at 182 Malcolm X Blvd.
Watch the Harlem Chamber Players’ 17th Annual Black History Month Celebration
This free event will be hosted by The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture on February 13, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. The one-hour performance will feature guest cellist-composer Akua Dixon and soprano Candice Hoyes, with the former premiering new work. Those interested must RSVP in advance.
Grab a weekend brunch at BLVD Bistro
This soul food restaurant pulls a spin on the traditional chicken and waffles — instead, BLVD Bistro does their iconic chicken and biscuits. The good ole’ southern classic of shrimp and grits is also on the menu, among other delicious dishes. The highlight of the BLVD Bistro, however, is the experience you get — the staff is incredibly friendly, and entertainment is provided in-house with a live DJ. It’s best to get a reservation because you can't overstate the popularity of this restaurant!
Learn how to sew at the Soul Collection’s Sewing Lounge in Brooklyn
If you want to pick up a new hobby, start by taking a class at Soul Collection’s Sewing Lounge. The beginner’s adult class begins at $105, and fabric and the use of the sewing machine are included in the price!
Go to Black History Movie Saturdays at the Mott Haven Library!
Two movie screenings will take place: “Cinderella” (1997) on February 8 and “Ruby Bridges” on February 22. Both screenings will begin at 11 a.m., are open to all ages, and are free of charge!
Go on a coffee date at I Like It Black Coffee Shop
Just a 16-minute walk from campus, this Black-owned café offers the perfect spot to grab a coffee and a light bite while catching up on your class readings!
Relax at Stuart Cinema & Cafe in Brooklyn
An alternative to the often overcrowded AMC theaters, this cinema highlights current releases along with independent films. The owner prioritizes community and supporting independent filmmakers after producing 19 different projects and starting her own film festival. The cinema is currently showing “One of Them Days” starring Keke Palmer and SZA.
Visit The Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center
Honor the legacies of these Black activists and revolutionaries through the interactive learning experiences available at the center. You can schedule a group or individual tour through their website, or even volunteer to lead one, as the center is always welcoming new volunteers in various areas!
Follow BLK MKT Vintage on Instagram
Once an in-person store filled with Black cultural archives, BLK MKT Vintage has now transitioned to selling these pieces online. Their collection includes vintage editions of Ebony Magazine, movie promotional materials from Black film classics, and vintage Howard University apparel. Their Instagram page showcases these items, along with other unique finds from Black culture and entertainment. They also feature their new book, “BLK MKT Vintage: Reclaiming Objects and Curiosities That Tell Black Stories.”
Pamper yourself with a Mani/Pedi at The Nail Suite by Lisa Logan
The Nail Suite, located between 139th Street and 140th Street, offers one of New York's most luxurious nail salon experiences. It prioritizes natural and organic products. Note that this establishment does not offer acrylic treatments — only gel and regular nail services.
Grab a juicy watermelon from Black Seed Brothers
Bring a touch of summertime to this cold February with a visit to 139th Street and Lenox, where you can buy a refreshing seeded watermelon from this Black-owned fruit business. In addition to whole fruit, they offer watermelon juices, which can be purchased online or through delivery apps like Uber Eats.
See an exhibition at The Nicola Vassell Gallery
Making history as the first Black woman-owned art gallery in New York’s Chelsea Arts district, the gallery focuses on contemporary art and spotlights POC artists. Until February 22, you can view Na Kim’s first solo exhibition, “Memory Place.”
Grab a book from Sisters Uptown Bookstore and Cultural Center
A staple in the Washington Heights community for over 20 years, this bookstore offers more than just a wide selection of books. It also hosts community workshops, author book signings, open mics, book swaps, and more!
Shop Brandon Blackwood
Brandon Blackwood is a designer based in New York City with a variety of beautiful handbags, footwear, and accessories. You can shop the store online or in one of the four stores that carry his designs: Nordstrom on 57th Street, Seed in Brooklyn, and KITH in both Brooklyn and Lafayette Street.
Watch a live jazz show at Patrick’s Place
Patrick’s Place is undoubtedly a triple threat: a restaurant, bar, and lounge. Specializing in Jamaican cuisine, the owners’ native food, the spot offers live shows every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, where you can enjoy jerk chicken and a drink while listening to the soulful melodies of the saxophone.
Have a study session at NBHD Brûlée
Located on Frederick Douglass Boulevard in Central Harlem is this relaxing cafe for students who want to escape campus but still be productive in completing assignments and studying for their classes. In addition to its coffee selections, NBHD Brûlée serves delicious breakfast and lunch options!
Buy a sweet treat from Baked Cravings
What sets this establishment apart from the competition is its commitment to baking treats completely free of peanuts and tree nuts. For those with allergies looking to enjoy dessert without the hassle, Baked Cravings is a must-try — and you can visit them in person or shop online!
Become a pilates princess at Harlem Pilates
This Black woman-run business prioritizes making fitness accessible to Harlem community members while expanding the perception of what fitness can look like in the local area. They offer classes such as Reformer Fundamentals, Open Level Reformer, Barre, and more, starting at $40. Various class packs are also available for those looking to attend classes more frequently.
Visit YÚ Interiors
If you’re looking for pieces to add to your dorm room or just moved off campus and want to start curating your space, look no further than this Brooklyn-based shop! Their beautiful, intentionally selected pieces by the owner are what has made them a steady pillar in the community for interior design over the last 20 years and counting!
Get a taste of the South at Sylvia’s
If you’re looking for authentic Southern soul food, Sylvia’s is only a 16-minute bus ride away on the M60! Known as the “Queen of Soul Food,” owner Sylvia Woods brought her entrepreneurial spirit and traditional Southern cuisine from her hometown in South Carolina to the big city, creating a beloved dining experience for the Harlem community to enjoy!
Try Cloudy Donuts in Nolita
This establishment has made history twice — first as New York City’s first completely vegan donut shop and again as the first Black-owned food and beverage business in the Nolita and Brooklyn Heights areas. With over 50 flavors to choose from, there’s something for everyone, so be sure to give them a try!
Thrift at Granru Market
This small Brooklyn business offers stunning vintage pieces, perfect for anyone looking to take a trip back in time. The best part of Granru Market is its buy-one-get-one-free deal on all vintage items every Monday!
Treat yourself at Beauty Therapy Session
This Black woman-owned business provides numerous beauty treatments for your beauty maintenance needs, including facials, eyebrow waxing and threading, eyebrow lamination and color enhancement, eyelash extensions, and makeup services. You can book a service on their website here.
Have a night out at Pig & Butter in the East Village
The drinks take center stage at this craft cocktail bar! They offer a variety of wines, beers, and house cocktails, but that’s not all — they’re also famous for their R&B Mondays, adding the perfect tunes to complement these delicious drinks!
Black History Month is more than a time to honor the contributions of Black Americans — it is a bridge between past and present, linking the labor of ancestors to the history still unfolding today. We stand on the foundation they built, reaping the fruits of their labor — the radical traditions they pioneered, the culture they shaped, and the intellectual legacies that continue to uplift and transform our collective lives. This month, we also acknowledge the brilliance of contemporary Black creatives, activists, and visionaries. It is a time not just for reflection, but for celebration — a public tribute to the resilience, artistry, and impact of Black history in motion.
The spirit of joy that Radford spoke of is the very heart of Black History Month — it is joy for how far Black Americans have come, joy for the present and future, for the struggles that have shaped the journey, and for the fullness of life itself.