Activist Sharon Risher joins Liberty for African-American History Month events

Chaplain and activist Rev. Sharon Risher will help kick off Liberty University’s Office of Equity & Inclusion’s slate of events for African-American History Month centered on educating students, faculty, and staff on the history of African-American culture.

Risher has been a prominent voice against gun violence after her mother and two cousins were among the eight people killed in the 2015 shooting at Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, S.C. She will speak at two separate campus events on Monday, Feb. 11.

“We are beyond excited for the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion at Liberty and welcome students, faculty, and staff to engage in our new programming,” said Quan McLaurin, associate director of student engagement. “African-Americans have been an integral part of the tapestry of our country, and we undoubtedly would not be the nation we are today without their cultural innovations. We specifically pause during February to highlight the African-American community’s innumerable contributions to the great nation we’ve become together.”

Schedule of Events

African-American History Month Alternative Convocation, Feb. 11, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Center for Natural Sciences auditorium, Room 128

Students are invited to a worship session with the Rev. Sharon Risher where she will speak on how the African-American church has been a cornerstone for the African-American community.

AAHM Deliberative Dialogue with the Rev. Sharon Risher, Feb. 11, 2-3:30 p.m., Jerry Falwell Library Terrace Level Lounge

In partnership with the Office of Equity & Inclusion, the Jerry Falwell Library will host “Resilience and the African-American Church.” The event will continue the conversation from Convocation.

Office of Equity & Inclusion Cultured Art Nights, Feb. 7, 14, 21, & 28, 7 p.m., Montview Student Union, Room 2770

This weekly Thursday night event showcases important movies, art, and literature in African-American history.

Soul: Night of the Arts, Feb. 22, 11 p.m.-2 a.m., LaHaye Event Space

This late-night approved event will feature art from students. Local artists will also showcase different musical acts and artists throughout the night.

The Office of Equity & Inclusion aims to serve Liberty students, faculty, staff, and leadership by making every effort to promote inclusiveness and impartiality throughout the university and standing against all forms of unbiblical discrimination. OEI often hosts different events throughout the school year to engage students.