bu Aubrey Marjason
Across the United States, February is recognized as Black History Month — a time to honor the achievements, history and cultural contributions of African Americans. While some public figures, including actor Morgan Freeman, have criticized the observance as limiting Black history to a single month, many Americans continue to celebrate the recognition of their heritage on the national calendar.
At Oklahoma Baptist University, Vice President for University Culture B.J. Glover said Black History Month serves as “an opportunity to highlight the contributions of African Americans to American history,” even amid ongoing cultural division. University leaders say OBU seeks to honor diverse backgrounds not only during February but throughout the year.
As a Christian university, OBU emphasizes viewing students through a biblical perspective. The university often references Revelation 7, which describes people from every nation, tribe and language gathered before God’s throne. Glover said institutions operate within a world affected by cultural stigma, unconscious bias and, at times, hostility toward ethnic differences. Despite these realities, she said OBU affirms Christ-centered diversity in which individuals are valued regardless of race or background.
As a predominantly white institution, OBU has encountered challenges related to cultural awareness and engagement. Glover said some students arrive on campus with limited exposure to different backgrounds, requiring intentional learning as they navigate new relationships. Without that willingness to learn, she said students may miss opportunities to build meaningful connections.
Glover also identified prejudice shaped by upbringing and cultural pride — the belief that one’s own culture is superior — as barriers to unity. In her role, she works to address these issues through education, dialogue and biblical teaching that encourages students to model Christ’s example of love.
University leaders stress that Christ’s love extended across cultural and social boundaries. OBU encourages students to practice that same love, one not driven by politics, trends or shared traits but by compassion for others.
Glover said students should be willing to step outside their comfort zones and pursue relationships with people from different backgrounds. Such vulnerability, she said, makes diversity personal and fosters empathy. Growth may be uncomfortable, she added, but it is necessary for cultivating a campus community that reflects biblical unity.
OBU highlights Black History Month through campus programming, including its annual Black History Month Chapel. The event, organized by Glover, draws broad campus participation and celebrates African American history and worship traditions.
This year’s chapel featured the Langston University Concert Choir performing gospel selections, hymns and “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black national anthem. Pastor Anthony Rhone of Galilee Baptist Church in Shawnee delivered the chapel message.
Glover said she hopes students across campus will participate in the celebration.
“I hope students will feel compelled to step outside their personal comfort zone … to embrace someone of a different background and get to actually know them,” Glover said.
She also encouraged students to reflect on their attitudes and pursue genuine love for others.
Although Black History Month is nearing its conclusion, university leaders say diversity initiatives will continue beyond February. OBU officials acknowledge that progress takes time but say the institution remains committed to fostering belonging and reflecting Christ-centered unity throughout the year.
