UPDATE: Elgin Community College is set to launch a series of dynamic public events throughout February 2026 in celebration of Black History Month, themed “100 Years of Celebrations, Centuries of Legacy.” This year marks a significant milestone, as it commemorates the 100th year of Black History Month, and the college is inviting the community to participate in these impactful activities.
Erik Enders, the college’s student life coordinator for student equity, emphasizes the importance of this celebration. “Our theme reflects that milestone,” he stated in a recent announcement on the college’s website.
Here is the lineup of events taking place at 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin:
The event titled “Nurturing Our Legacy: Mind, Body, and Community” kicks off on Wednesday, February 11, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This presentation will foster conversations and activities that celebrate the interconnectedness of mental, physical, and communal health in the Black community. Attendees will engage in healing practices that are both personal and collective.
On Tuesday, February 17, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., students can participate in “Reimagining Genius: A Black Inventor’s Pitch Experience.” This event encourages participants to honor Black inventors by reimagining their creations and developing modern solutions, thereby enhancing entrepreneurial skills and sharing innovative ideas.
Another engaging event, “The Anatomy of a Bar: Hip-Hop Lyric Writing 101,” will take place on Thursday, February 19, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.. Participants will learn to craft powerful narratives through rap and spoken word, exploring the art of lyricism, rhythm, and wordplay.
Additionally, the college will host the “MAGIC Event – A Day Without an Immigrant Part 2” on Thursday, February 24, from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in Building B, Rooms 180 and 181. This session will provide valuable insights into the significant impact of immigrants on American history.
The culmination of the month’s celebrations will be the “Laced in Legacy Sneaker Ball 2026” on Friday, February 27, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the Jobe Lounge. This ticketed event promises an evening filled with inspiring stories, live performances, and dancing to music by a DJ.
For further details on event locations and to acquire tickets for the Sneaker Ball, individuals can contact the Office of Student Life at 847-214-7079 or email [email protected].
This celebration is not just a reflection of history; it’s an invitation to engage with the legacy of the Black community actively. Don’t miss out on these transformative experiences happening throughout February!
