Introduction
The Black Cultural Center dedicates itself to building community for Black students and inviting all within the UIC community to explore the vibrant and diverse cultures that make up the African Diaspora.
The Black Cultural Center (BCC) was established in 1991 after decades of campus and community advocacy and activism. Originally named the African American Cultural Center, the AACC was first proposed to university administrators during the 1960s. After bold and insistent student demonstrations during the 1980s and early ‘90s, UIC established this unique space of Black student belonging, community engagement, and cultural exploration.
Guided by our Mission, today’s BCC curates and sponsors vibrant programming, exhibitions, campus collaborations, and community partnerships throughout the year. Our Gallery and Library are spaces designed for gathering, thoughtful engagement, quiet study, joyful expression, and community building.
We are one of seven Centers for Cultural Understanding and Social Change at UIC. The Centers for Cultural Understanding and Social Change (CCUSC) work collectively to produce knowledge and validate the multidimensional lived experiences of historically and currently excluded communities. Informed by social justice frameworks, the Centers connect our communities and design intercultural and engaged-learning opportunities, student mentorship programs, cultural programming, advocacy, collaborative research, and community partnerships. Through these efforts, the Centers expand the educational and transformational mission of UIC.
The Black Cultural Center welcomes everyone in the UIC community who is eager to expand their knowledge about race, culture, and social justice in the United States and throughout the African Diaspora. Below are photos of our library/student lounge and gallery spaces.
