The Archivation Line

What’s to Love About February?

A guest post by Archives Student Worker, Shania

Display area in the Marilyn J. Lass Center for Minnesota Studies in the Memorial Library

February is a significant month to remember. People tend to overlook it as just being one of the shortest months of the year. However, the shortest month holds so much history and love. February is the month in which African-Americans especially, take the time to reflect, acknowledge, and pay homage to the past and present African-American ancestors who’ve contributed to the beauty and intelligence of the world today. On these twenty-eight days, people around the world take the time to read, research, and spread information about known, and unknown, African-American persons for their influence and inventions that make life manageable for present and future generations. I’m talking about the Dr.Kings and Rosa Parks, the activists of the Civil Rights Movement, to the Dr. Shirley Jacksons and Lewis Latimers, developers of the telephone and light bulb. However, the celebration doesn’t stop at past generations, we look at all generations in which have contributed to the evolution of musical artistry, sports, art, fashion, education and other genres that African-Americans have been successful in. This is the month of African-American pride, and boastfulness. Twenty-eight days of learning, as well as teaching others about the uniqueness of the African-American people and the African-American culture.

February isn’t only about the African-American people and their accomplishments, but also the month to express love for one another. Love between young and old, big and small, brother and sister, husband and wife, or simply friend to friend. This is the month that our days are filled with the finest of chocolates, the sweetest of strawberries, the whitest of snow flakes, the coldest of weather, and most importantly with the individuals we love the most. The extreme weather experienced around this time keeps everyone indoors with family and friends, enjoying games, movies, and the warmth of one another. This is the month of “I Like You” “I Love You” and “I Do”. Everyone dressed head to toe in shades of pink and red, chanting “Will You Be My Valentine”. February is the month of love, laughter, and being with your loved ones.

Taking all of this information in, anyone can see that February is my favorite month and I wanted to do something that showed my appreciation for it. The bulletin board located to the right of Archives Office entrance inside the Lass Center on the second floor of the Memorial Library, hangs against the wall with vibrant shades of black, pink, red, and green that stand out on a white background. The black wording is to symbolize the African-American people, while the different sizes and colors of hearts symbolize the love. I’m referring to love as we would on Valentine’s Day as well as the love for the African-American people for their contributions. The books surrounding the bulletin and near the entrance of the Lass Center include the history of African-Americans and their roles in Minnesota. In that collection we have African-Americans as activist, sports players, political figures, and their journey to settling in Minnesota. All of which are great books I’d like you to explore with me today.

Some more books on display inside of the Lass Center