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PROGRAMS
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is an African American winter holiday celebrated from December 26  through January 1 and is observed here at Cal Poly Pomona the Thursday before finals week as a collaboration between the Ethnic and Women's Studies African American Experience Class and the African American Student Center. It was created in 1966 by Ron Maulana Karenga. Kwanzaa is taken from the Swahili word kwanza, meaning “first.” An extra “a” was added to the end of the word to give it seven letters, representing the holiday’s seven principles: The Nguzo Saba: [Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), Imani (Faith)].
Black History Month
Black History Week was founded in 1929 by Carter G. Woodson. In 1976 it was expanded to a month long celebration. The purpose of Black History Month at  Cal Poly Pomona is to acknowledge the progress, richness, diversity and contributions that Blacks/African Americans have made locally, nationally and globally. The AASC works to promote these contributions through cultural and educational programs, events and celebrations in collaboration with the Black student clubs and organizations, the Black Faculty and Staff Association, students and community members and the campus at large.
Black Awards Banquet
Started in 1974, the annual Black Awards Banquet allows the Black/African American campus community to celebrate their achievements for the academic year and recognize the excellence of student leadership on campus. The AASC awards the annual Flame Award to an active and outstanding freshman as well as the Nguzo Saba award to the graduating senior that has had a positive impact on our community through the seven principles of Kwanzaa. This program serves as a retention tool for the current Black/African American students to continue to make significant contributions to our campus community through service and leadership in campus organizations, as well as develop leadership and personal skills for self growth.
Diversity Ambassador Program: Civil Rights Trip to the South
A culturally diverse group of students experience the rich history of the Civil Rights  Movement by traveling to the South. They are challenged to identify the legacy they intend to leave as individuals. Students can receive 4 units of academic credit through the Ethnic and Women’s Studies department. The application process begins in the fall for the Civil Rights Trip to the South which occurs during spring break.
Pan African Graduation Celebration
This community celebration began in 1993, and acknowledges that students of African descent have successfully completed their degree programs. 4.3 percent of the overall student population is of African descent, and this specialized ceremony allows students to celebrate their graduation from Cal Poly Pomona in an atmosphere that honors their cultural heritage.
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