FROM THE ARCHIVES

By Eva Philips Staff writer

sored a series of events and activities for all in the Mercyhurst community to partake in.

This began on Feb. 1, when Terrence Floyd, the brother of George Floyd, spoke in front of hundreds of students, faculty, staff, and community members about his brother’s life, the work he has done since his death and why young individuals should continue to speak out against police brutality and systemic racism.

This was followed by a Black Resistance Dialogue on Feb. 2, where the Black Students for Unity (BSU) hosted a debriefing conversation to discuss what Floyd had taught the audience and their takeaways.

Other events for Black History Month at Mercyhurst included a screening of the documentary film “13th” and a discussion on Feb. 14, a MAC/SAC event with comedian LeClerc Andre that included decorating cookies and trivia, and a soul food festival coming up on Feb. 28, where students will have the opportunity to try out food from local restaurants in Erie.

Additionally, there are a selection of Black History Month events that occurreing off campus, including a fashion show at Penn State Behrend on March 25 and a “Black Ice Night” with the Erie Otters, presented by Erie’s Black Wall Street, on Feb. 28.

Mercyhurst always has great events for students to partake in for Black History Month, so these were all wonderful chances to get involved and learn more about why it is so important to learn about African American heritage.

Be sure to keep an eye out for what upcoming events are going on and/or follow BSU on social media to stay in the loop!

This week in Mercyhurst history takes us back to the 1950s, when February’s weather was far more wintry much to the delight of students. Around this time of year approximately seventy years ago, Mercyhurst’s all-female student body took part in the annual Winter Carnival festivities.

The event spanned an entire weekend, with activities that included a hayride, bonfire, a formal dinner, and plenty of dancing.

It was also an exciting opportunity for Mercyhurst women to socialize with potential male suitors, since at that time Mercyhurst had no male students. The weekend culminated with the crowning of a Winter Carnival queen and ended with a Sunday brunch and Mass service.

Sadly, Mercyhurst no longer holds a Winter Carnival, but for the years that it lasted, this tradition brought joy to campus and gave students something to look forward to during the long Erie winter.