The University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) is hosting a research symposium to mark the 400^th anniversary of the arrival of the first African slaves to North America.

“Reflecting Black: 400 Years of African American Life and History” will feature panel discussions with scholars and historians on October 24 and 25. Dr. Alexander Byrd, associate professor of history at Rice University, will serve as the keynote speaker.

Dr. Jonathan Chism, assistant professor of history at UHD, is among the event's principal organizers. He noted that the symposium will include all aspects of African-American life and experiences.

“We are covering the entire spectrum of 400 years," he explained. "We are reflecting on the trauma and the pain that African Americans have endured, survived and overcome. We are also celebrating the achievements.” 

Chism also noted that the symposium also will provide a chance “to showcase UHD faculty and centers as it relates to our student demographic and working with first-generation and transfer students.”

UHD students, who attend and present at this symposium, will have the opportunity to collaborate and network with graduate students from all over the nation.

“The key word is exposure," Chism said. "It's important that our undergrads are exposed or have the opportunity to engage graduate students. Grad students tend to be more invested in terms of research, which has the potential to encourage and inspire our students on their academic journey.”

Scholars participating in "Reflecting Black" panels are from noted institutions, including: Yale University, Vanderbilt University, Delaware State University, University of Oklahoma, University of Colorado-Boulder, Pepperdine University, College of New Jersey, Rice, The University of Texas at Austin, University of Houston, The University of Texas at San Antonio, The University of Texas at Arlington, Prairie View A&M University, Stephen F. Austin University, Houston Community College and UHD.

The symposium is sponsored by the following UHD departments and colleges:

• College of Humanities & Social Sciences 
• Center for Critical Race Studies
• Center for Latino Studies
• Cultural Enrichment Center 
• College of Public Service
• Department of History, Humanities & Language
• Department of Social Sciences
• College of Sciences & Technology
• Department of Title IX, Equity & Diversity
• Office or Research & Sponsored Programs

For more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/UHDReflectingBlack.