Over the years, people have celebrated Black History month by learning about contributions made by blacks and commemorating black leaders.

However, the K-State Black Student Union President Bryon Williams said colleges across the nation are changing this trend.

"Colleges are starting to have events that focus on more than history but focuses on current issues, stereotypes and taboos," he said. "In terms of our [college students'] education level, we have created a time to discuss relevant black, racial issues."

During the month of February, there will be several events celebrating Black History Month, including a keynote speech from Julian Bond, chairman of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People on Feb. 21.

Williams said the purpose of this year's events is to educate and enlighten students.

Discussions will take place to open communication among the K-State community, including a discussion on the word "nigger" and how it epitomizes hatred and oppression, Williams said.

The theme for K-State's Black History month is "Raising the Bar: Connecting our Past Progress with our Future Ambitions."

The theme sprouted from this year's BSU overall theme: "The Elevation Project," he said, in which Williams has implemented a threefold endeavor to engage, energize and empower the members.

The BSU also has collaborated with other multicultural organizations on campus like the Hispanic American Leadership Organization. H.A.L.O. will co-sponsor the play "Platanos & Collared Greens: Black and Latino Theatrical Production" with BSU on Feb. 20. The romantic comedy play portrays an interracial couple dealing with with cultural and racial prejudices.

Uriel Estrada, H.A.L.O. president, said the play is the first step to future event collaboration projects with BSU.

"When you co-sponsor something, you are showing unity between the two organizations and linking that bridge," he said.

Estrada encourages all students of all backgrounds to participate in the Black History Month events.

"A lot of individuals may not realize or understand about some of the boundaries that exist today in society," he said. "These events can serve as a eye-opener."

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EVENTS:

Black History Month Activities include:

Monday:

Ashra Kwesi, a historian who traces Western civilization back to roots in Africa and ancient Egypt, will deliver a lecture sponsored by Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity at 7 p.m. in the K-State Student Union's K and S ballrooms.

Tuesday:

Author Lawrence Ross will speak about the influence of black Greek organizations in his lecture, "The Divine Nine: History of African-American Fraternities and Sororities," at 8 p.m. in the Union's Forum Hall. It is presented by the National Panhellenic Council.

"Sister Dark, Sister Light; Brother Wrong, Brother Right," 7 p.m. in Union 211, is a discussion about stereotypes of African-American men and women in culture, relationships and the work force.

"Nigger: The History of Hate," 7 p.m. Union 212, is a discussion of the racial slur.

Wednesday:

"Platanos and Collard Greens," 7 p.m. in Forum Hall, is a romantic, comedic play about overcoming cultural and racial prejudices between Latinos and blacks. It is presented by H.A.L.O.

Thursday:

"Civil Rights: In the Day, Today and Tomorrow," 7 p.m. in the K-State Alumni Center Ballroom, is a lecture by Julian Bond, chairman of the NAACP. He'll address the nearly century-long history of the NAACP, which has fought for social justice for minorities everywhere. Bond also will review the history of the civil rights movement and the current fight for equal opportunity in America. A reception will follow in the Tointon Great Room at the Alumni Center.

Feb. 26:

"Soul Cafe," 7 p.m. in the Union Courtyard, is a jazz-cafe-style setting that will offer live music and poetry. It is co-sponsored by Omega Psi Phi fraternity.