University of Pittsburgh's K. Leroy Irvis Black History Month Celebration

Black History Month is celebrated annually during the month of February to acknowledge and celebrate the important contributions of people of African descent to our nation's life and culture.  Black History Month, which began as Negro History Week in 1926 under the leadership of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, falls in February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. 

This year's national theme is "Black Migrations," which emphasizes the movement of people of African descent to new destinations and subsequently to new social realities.  You can read more about the theme on the ASALH website. 

The Pitt community is encouraged to actively engage in the celebration of Black History Month.  A list of 2019 Black History Monthy University Wide events is available below or check the Office of Diversity and Inclusion's Event Calendar for all events.

Our signature event, the K. Leroy Irvis Black History Month Program hosted by the Chancellor, is named for K. Leroy Irvis, a 1954 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh School of Law and one of the most important and influential men in Pennsylvania history.

To add an event to the ODI calendar, please complete this form.