Heritage Months at OSU

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Join the Cowboy family celebration! Oklahoma State University, in collaboration with campus units, presents an annual series of vibrant events, programs, and meetings, embracing and valuing the rich heritages of our diverse communities. Discover the excitement of our annual celebrations below.

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Black History Month

February 1-28/29

Black History Month, originating in 1926, honors Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln's birthdays. Championed by Carter G. Woodson, it emphasizes the significance of understanding the Black experience. President Gerald Ford officially recognized it in 1976, a tradition continued by every sitting President since. Explore the richness of this celebrated month!

 

Women's History Month

March 1-31

In 1981, Congress urged the President to declare March 7 as Women's History Week, evolving into Women's History Month in 1987. Commemorating women's contributions, March 2011 saw the release of the first comprehensive federal report on the state of women. Explore the vibrant history of Women's History Month!

 

LGBTQ+ Pride Month

April 1-30

Nationally: June

Join the celebration at Oklahoma State University! We bring LGBTQ Pride to April, creating a vibrant campus celebration when classes are in session. In 2019, Mayor Will Joyce declared the first week of April as Stillwater LGBTQ Pride Week. Let's unite in pride and celebration!

 

Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month

April 1-30

Nationally: May

Celebrate the rich heritage of Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi Americans (APIDA) with us! Nationally recognized in May, this crucial time honors the contributions of the APIDA community to our history, cultures, and society. Originating as a heritage week in 1977, it officially became Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month in 1992. At OSU, we mark the occasion in April, ensuring our community can celebrate together while on campus. Join us in honoring this vibrant heritage!

 

Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month

September 15-October 15

Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month, established in 1988, blossomed from a heritage week initiated in 1968. Celebrating the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15, it coincides with Mexico and Chile's independence celebrations in the same week. Join the celebration of this rich heritage!

 

Native American Heritage Month

November 1-30

In 1990, Congress declared November as National American Indian Heritage Month (Pub.L.101-343), marking a poignant recognition of Native cultures. President George H.W. Bush issued the inaugural proclamation, and subsequent presidents, including Clinton, George W. Bush, Obama, and Trump, have continued the tradition.

November, chosen to conclude the traditional harvest season, serves as a vibrant celebration of rich Native cultures, traditions, and histories. Join us in acknowledging the invaluable contributions of Native peoples during this special month!