YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University’s Department of Africology and African American Studies will host a Black History Month keynote address featuring EMU alum and longtime Detroit organizer Malik Yakini from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 16, in Ballroom B of the Student Center, 900 Oakwood in Ypsilanti.
The keynote, titled “Snatchin’ Off the Blindfolds!: Reflections on 50 Years of Working to Promote Knowledge of the Histories and Cultures of African Peoples,” commemorates the 100th anniversary of Black History Week, which was established in 1926 and later expanded into Black History Month, and the 50th anniversary of African American Studies at EMU, which was formally established as a program in 1975.
“This is an opportunity for the EMU community to engage with the history and continued importance of African American struggles for self-determination”, said Toni Pressley-Sanon, department head of Africology and African American Studies. “Brother Malik’s visit is a rare opportunity to sit at the feet of someone who has been in the trenches for decades. He has a lot to teach about what it takes to do liberatory work.”
Yakini’s address will reflect on five decades of work dedicated to advancing knowledge of the histories, cultures, and liberation movements of African peoples throughout the Diaspora. Drawing from his personal experiences as an organizer, educator and institution builder, Yakini will examine the role of historical and cultural awareness in shaping identity, strengthening communities, and informing contemporary struggles for justice and equity.
An alum of Eastern and former president of the Black Student Association, Yakini has been a leading voice in Detroit’s Black liberation, food sovereignty, and education movements for decades. He is widely known for his work in building community-based institutions, promoting self-determination, and organizing for African-Centered education.
The event is part of Eastern’s broader Black History Month programming, which highlights scholarship, cultural expression, and dialogue centered on the African Diaspora and the lived experiences of Black communities.
The keynote is free and open to the public. Attendees may join in person or watch the event live on YouTube.
For additional information, email pblackme@emich.edu.
About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern Michigan University is the second-oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 12,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral, and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences, and professions. More than 300 majors, minors, and concentrations are offered through the University’s Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its Graduate School. EMU is nationally recognized for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. With a strong focus on career readiness, the University equips students with the skills, experiences, and professional networks needed to thrive in today’s workforce. Through hands-on learning, industry partnerships, and personalized support, EMU prepares graduates to launch meaningful careers and make an impact in their communities.
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