Wright-Patt celebrates Black History Month with base-wide events Published Jan. 31, 2023 By Jaima Fogg 88th Air Base Wing 88th Air Base Wing's Black History Month observance graphic. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Matthew Fink) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- In celebration of Black History Month, the 88th Air Base Wing will host several events throughout February. This year’s theme, “Inspiring Change,” strives to epitomize the contributions of Black Americans to challenge racial inequities and promote opportunities for equal advancement. “Black History Month gives us a chance to shine a light on Black culture and remember the achievements and contributions made by Black Americans, despite the injustices that they endured,” said Kelsie Rayon, Air Force Life Cycle Management Center program manager and WPAFB Black History Month committee member. “Sadly, these injustices continue to happen, and it is very important to find ways to challenge these injustices and inspire change, especially in the workplace. It is vital that we strive for diversity and inclusion here at Wright-Patt. Having a workplace that allows conversations about race, diversity and inclusion is important for building trust, rapport and strong relationships between individuals and organizations.” A look at some upcoming events: A graphic created using Adobe Illustrator for use as a flyer advertising the 88th Air Base Wing's Black History Month luncheon. The illustration features a raised fist and stylized text in the Pan-African colors of red, yellow, and green, which symbolize unity and pride. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Matthew Fink) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res A “Mentoring Lunch and Learn” will be held Feb. 14 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the USO auditorium. The interactive event will feature a panel of leaders from across the base to discuss mentorship, share personal experiences and answer questions. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lunch. The event is open to all community members with base access. The Wright-Patt Club will serve a Southern-inspired buffet luncheon Feb. 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Michael Carter, Sinclair Community College chief diversity officer, will serve as guest speaker. Musical entertainment will be provided by the Air Force Security Assistance and Cooperation Directorate choir and Dave & Flow. Cost is $14.95 for club members and $16.95 for non-members. The event is open to anyone with base access. Reservations are required. RSVP by Feb. 10: https://einvitations.afit.edu/inv/index.cfm?i=718397&k=05604A0A7250 A graphic created using Adobe Illustrator for use as a flyer advertising a Black History Month scavenger hunt at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. Throughout the year, visitors to the museum can view exhibits and check out online resources to learn more about African Americans who served in the Air Force and its predecessor organizations. (U.S. Air Force illustration by Matthew Fink) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res A scavenger hunt takes place at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force throughout February. The self-paced tour will educate and inspire visitors in identifying the diversity of Black Airmen and their achievements and contributions to the Air Force. Scavenger hunt forms are available at the museum’s Info Desk. Completed entries can be entered in a contest to win prizes. The scavenger hunt is open to the public. A map is available here: www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Portals/7/USAF%20Black%20History%20Scavenger%20Hunt.pdf. Black History Month is an annual celebration that recognizes the significant contributions of Black Americans throughout the nation’s history by highlighting their contributions to arts, entertainment, law, politics, sciences and sports.