Welcome to the Sociocultural Programming community here at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee!

“I can see myself in all things and all people around me.” – Sanskrit Phrase

Sociocultural Programming is a unit of Student Involvement at the UWM Student Union. Our mission is to provide events, activities and leadership development opportunities for the campus community designed to increase awareness and understanding of diverse identities, social justice and urban issues.

Our programming explores and celebrates differences and commonalities related to race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, spirituality, cognitive and physical ability, socioeconomic status and more. We work in collaboration with student organizations, academic departments, campus resource centers, and the Milwaukee community.

Here, we push you to become more than great. Whether it be using the power of your voice at Lyrical Sanctuary, completing our Lead the Change social justice leadership development workshop series, or just simply sharing a space with us, we invite you to attend as many of our events as possible!

FOR COMPLETE DETAILS AND ADDITIONAL EVENTS, Follow us on social media @UWMSociocul

Sociocultural Events for Spring 2024

JANUARY

Fraternity and Sorority Life Winter Carnival

Wednesday, January 24 | Celebration
12-2 p.m. | Union Concourse

Are you interested in joining a fraternity or sorority? Or are you interested in learning more? Meet the fraternities and sororities at the Winter Carnival while enjoying winter games, a hot chocolate bar, fun activities, and so much more! This is the perfect time to ask questions of current members and see where your journey could begin!

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Sierra Skindzelewski: skindzel@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Fraternity and Sorority Life

FEBRUARY

UWM Libraries Distinctive Collections: Black History Pop-Up Exhibit

Thursday, February 1 | Gallery Exhibition
9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | UWM Libraries (Archives, Special Collections, and American Geographical Society Library)

For this year’s Black History Month, UWM’s Distinctive Collections (Archives, Special Collections, and American Geographical Society Library) are hosting a month-long pop-up exhibit featuring an array of rare and unique materials that show the diverse cultures and histories of Black Americans throughout the United States and in Milwaukee.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Georgia Brown: browngl@uwm.edu

Sponsored by UWM Archives, UWM Special Collections, American Geographical Society Library and UWM Libraries

Black Student Cultural Center Winter Gathering

Thursday, February 1 | Social Gathering
1-3 p.m. | Bolton Hall 176

Connect with Students, Faculty and staff! Come eat, network and jam out!

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Black Student Cultural Center: bcc-staff@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Black Student Cultural Center, WiscAMP STEM-Inspire Program, Ronald E. McNair, Black Student Union and National Society of Black Engineers

Black History Month Kickoff

Tuesday, February 6 | Celebration
11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Union Concourse

Live music by Milwaukee’s B~Free and Quinten Farr Duo, cheesecake from Baked Dreams Creations, crafts, a vendor fair featuring Milwaukee’s Black-owned businesses, and more to celebrate the start of Black History Month at UW-Milwaukee.

For more information contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming, Black Student Cultural Center, African Diaspora Committee and Women’s Resource Center

Lunar New Year

Wednesday, February 7 | Stargazing
7-8 p.m. | UWM Planetarium

Learn how the Moon’s cycle determines the Lunar New Year, celebrated worldwide by 2 billion people. Follow Pu Chen through an immersive timeline of the preparation for a traditional Lunar New Year celebration as she presents themes of light, food, music, and traditions that accompany the changing of the seasons. The program will include an indoor stargazing session of the night sky followed by the opportunity to ask questions.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact UWM Planetarium: planetarium@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the UWM Planetarium

Diverse Ideas: w/ CopyWrite Magazine Creatives

Thursday, February 8 | Casual Conversation
12-1 p.m. | Lubar Entrepreneurship Center, Nicholas Innovation Commons

The Lubar Entrepreneurship Center & the Black Student Cultural are proud to welcome UWM Alumni Lexi Brunson & CopyWrite Magazine for Diverse Ideas during Black History Month. CopyWrite Magazine is comprised of an “unapologetic group of creatives.” who are “in business to change the community.” This group of creatives offers space, and events, as well as highlight stories and showcase unrealized artistic potential throughout our community. Hear all about their new location on MLK and how they continue to creatively impact the communities they serve.

For more information contact Lubar Entrepreneurship Center: trammel4@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Lubar Entrepreneurship Center, Black Student Cultural Center and Minority Women Entrepreneurs

Asian Faculty Meet & Greet w/ Dr. Xin Huang

Thursday, February 8 | Social Gathering
12-1 p.m. | Bolton Hall 160

Stop by the Southeast Asian American Student Center to meet and have a casual conversation with a UWM Asian faculty member! This is a great opportunity for students to connect with UWM faculty. Bring your lunch and any questions that you may have!

For more information or to request accommodations, contact the Southeast Asian American Student Center: uwm-seaasc@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Southeast Asian American Student Center

African American Film Series: The Hate U Give

Thursday, February 8 | Film Screening
6-8 p.m. | Union Cinema

Join us for a powerful community film screening of “The Hate U Give,” a gripping adaptation of Angie Thomas’s bestselling novel. This thought-provoking movie explores themes of racial injustice and activism through the eyes of Starr Carter, a young African American girl navigating the complexities of her dual identity. Come together with friends to engage in a meaningful conversation about social justice, empathy, and the impact of our voices in creating positive change.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming and Union Cinema

Under African Skies

February 9, February 16, & February 23 | Stargazing
7-8 p.m. | UWM Planetarium

Experience stars, stories, and cultural perspectives across the expansive African continent. Each Friday from Feb 9 – 23 will feature a different guest speaker who will talk about their country, culture, and connections to the night sky. Enjoy treats from Immy’s African Cuisine after the programs. Each program will include an indoor stargazing session of the night sky followed by the opportunity to ask questions.

February 9: Eritrea with Fessahaye Mebrahtu
February 16: Nigeria with Franca Ohikhuare and Vitalis Nwashindu
February 23: Kenya with Susan Murabana

For more information or to request accommodations, contact UWM Planetarium: planetarium@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the UWM Planetarium, Institute of World Affairs and Sociocultural Programming

Power of the Vote!

Tuesday, February 13 | Workshop
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Bolton Hall 170

Are you aware of the Wisconsin primary election happening on February 20th? No worries! Join Leaders Igniting Transformation (L.I.T.) on February 13th in BSCC and February 15th in the RHC to get a crash course. Play Family Feud-style games tailored to voter education and learn why this election is important! Bring a friend, enjoy some food, and play for bragging rights.

For more information contact Leaders Igniting Transformation: tiara@litmke.org

Sponsored by the Black Student Cultural Center, Roberto Hernandez Center and Leaders Igniting Transformation

Black History Month in the Military

Tuesday, February 13 – Thursday, February 15 | Exhibit
8 a.m.-4 p.m. | Union Concourse

This three-day event highlights the contributions of Black Veterans in U.S. military history, nationally, in Wisconsin, and locally. View posters with the Veterans and their stories, see the family contributions of UWM faculty and staff members, and honor your own family story.

For more information contact the Military and Veterans Resource Center: mavrc@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Military and Veterans Resource Center and Centers for Advocacy and Student Engagement

Courageous Conversations: Relationships & Healthy Communication

Tuesday, February 13 | Roundtable Discussion
12-1 p.m. | Inclusive Excellence Center, Union EG39

Courageous Conversations is a monthly event series featuring a range of different topics for students to engage in meaningful conversation. Join us for a chat about what it means to be in a relationship and practice healthy communication.

For more information contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming and the Inclusive Excellence Center

Tuesday Tea: Black History Month Edition

Tuesday, February 13 | Casual Conversation w/tea
4-5 p.m. | Union 3rd Floor Lounge

Join us for a casual pop-in series to chat about spicy topics and piping hot takes that have gone untouched in Leadership and Higher Education with a focus on Black History Month topics.

For more information contact Student Leadership Programs: skindzel@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Student Leadership Programs

Lyrical Sanctuary Featuring Cedric Hoard

For more information contact or to request accommodations, contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming

Power of the Vote!

Thursday, February 15 | Workshop
12:30-2 p.m. | Bolton Hall 183

Are you aware of the Wisconsin primary election happening on February 20th? No worries! Join Leaders Igniting Transformation (L.I.T.) to get a crash course. Play Family Feud-style games tailored to voter education and learn why this election is important! Bring a friend, enjoy some food, and play for bragging rights.

For more information contact Leaders Igniting Transformation: tiara@litmke.org

Sponsored by the Roberto Hernandez Center, Black Student Cultural Center and Leaders Igniting Transformation

A Night with Divine Nine Greek Life

Thursday, February 15 | Informational
6:30-8 p.m. | Union Fireside Lounge

Come learn more about Divine Nine fraternities and sororities, learn the history of the organizations, what it means to be a member, how to join, and embrace our incredible Milwaukee National Pan-Hellenic community. All are welcome to learn, have fun, and enjoy light refreshments. Interested in learning more? Reach out to greeklife@uwm.edu.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Sierra Skindzelewski: skindzel@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Fraternity and Sorority Life

Black History Month Trivia Night

Thursday, February 15 | Trivia
7-8:30 p.m. | Union Gasthaus

Join us for a fun night of Black history trivia in the Gasthaus! Teams can be made up of 2-6 players, and if you don’t have a team, we will gladly help you make some new connections with some fellow Panthers who also want to challenge their trivia knowledge. The top 2 teams will receive UWM Union Gift Cards!

For more information contact Derrick Langston: langsto5@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Black Student Cultural Center and Student Involvement

Black Feminist Symposium

Friday, February 16 | Conference
10 a.m.-3 p.m. | Lubar Entrepreneurship Center

The annual Black Feminist Symposium aims to present the UWM campus and community with resources, workshops, and engaging discussions that center the theory and practice of Black feminism in an accessible way.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact the Women’s Resource Center: wmncntr@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Women’s Resource Center, Black Student Cultural Center, Lubar Entrepreneurship Center, ACLU, Women’s and Gender Studies, Sociocultural Programming and UWM Libraries

Sisters Like Me: Our Beautiful Black Hair

Tuesday, February 20 | Conference
4-6 p.m. | Union Fireside Lounge

Sisters Like Me is an annual program that provides the opportunity for Black women-identified students to share their unique cultural experiences with other members of the community at UWM. Sisters like me invite Black women from the campus and community to facilitate community and bonding. Join us in welcoming our keynote, St. Clair Detrick-Jules, author of My Beautiful Black Hair: 101 Natural Hair Stories from the Sisterhood who will also be facilitating workshops on identity and storytelling.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact the Women’s Resource Center: wmncntr@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Women’s Resource Center, Black Student Cultural Center and Sociocultural Programming

Race, Justice, Power Undergraduate Conference

Friday, February 23| Conference
11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Lubar Entrepreneurship Center

Undergraduate students from across UWM’s majors will give creative and research-driven presentations on their experiences and explorations of race and racism.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact the Honors College Equity Team: honors-antiracism@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Honors College Equity Team and Student Involvement

2nd Annual Black History Month Alumni Mixer

Monday, February 26 | Celebration
5-7 p.m. | Rise & Grind Cafe, 2737 N. Doctor M.L.K. Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53212

Join the UWM Alumni Association and the Black Student Cultural Center for our second annual UWMAA Black History Month Alumni Mixer. Appetizers will be provided by the UWMAA, and beverages will be available for purchase. Please visit give.uwm.edu for registration information.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact the Black Student Cultural Center at pryor@uwm.edu

Sponsored by University Advancement, the UWM Alumni Association and Black Student Cultural Center

Distinguished Lecture Series: An Evening with Jessamyn Stanley

Tuesday, February 27 | Lecture
6-7:30 p.m. | Union Wisconsin Room

Founder of Underbelly Yoga, Jessamyn Stanley is showing the world that yoga and fitness is for everybody. Jessamyn Stanley is an award-winning, internationally acclaimed voice in wellness, known for her insights on 21st-century yoga and intersectional identity. Her yoga platform, Underbelly Yoga, is a place for people who may feel displaced, discouraged, or overlooked due to not seeing themselves reflected in the health and fitness community. She’s known for her inclusive approach to physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Stanley is the author of two books, a regular contributor to SELF magazine, hosts the podcast Dear Jessamyn, and has been featured by countless national and international media outlets for her work.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Student Involvement: activities@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Student Involvement, in partnership with UWM Student Health and Wellbeing, the UWM Women’s Resource Center, UWM LGBT Resource Center, University Recreation, and other campus partners

Come On In, Your Body’s Fine!

Wednesday, February 28 | Pool Party
2-4 p.m. | Klotsche Pool

Leap into body acceptance at the Klotsche pool with CAB, SHAW, WRC, LGBTQ+ Resource Center, and UREC! Come as you are!

For more information contact the Campus Activities Board: cabuwm@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Campus Activities Board, Student Health and Wellness, the Women’s Resource Center, LGBTQ+ Resource Center, and University Recreation

Black History Month Closing Celebration

Thursday, February 29 | Celebration
11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Union Concourse

Come celebrate Black History Month with art displays, music and performances in the concourse! We’ll have Ko-Thi Dance Company performing at 1 p.m.!

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming, the Black Student Cultural Center, & Military and Veterans Resource Center

MARCH

African American Film Series: Black Panther Wakanda Forever

Thursday, March 7 | Film Screening and Discussion
6-8 p.m. | Union Cinema

In the wake of T’Challa’s legacy, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” explores the evolution of Wakanda. New characters vie for the throne, blending action with cultural depth in a narrative that expands the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This sequel offers a compelling exploration of Wakanda’s enduring legacy and the spirit of the Black Panther.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming and the Union Cinema

Courageous Conversations: Handling Turmoil while in College

Tuesday, March 12 | Roundtable Discussion
12-1 p.m. | Inclusive Excellence Center, Union EG39

Being a college student is hard. Navigating college when the world seems on fire is even harder. Join the Inclusive Excellence Center and Sociocultural Programming for a courageous conversation surrounding hoe it feels to be a college student in a world with social and political unrest.

For more information contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming and the Inclusive Excellence Center

Lyrical Sanctuary Featuring Aichelle White

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming

Asian Faculty Meet & Greet w/ Dr. Vipavee Thongpriwan

Thursday, March 14 | Social Gathering
12-1 p.m. | Bolton Hall 160

For more information or to request accommodations, contact the Southeast Asian American Student Center: uwm-seaasc@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Southeast Asian American Student Center

The Summit on Black Male Youth

Wednesday, March 20 & Thursday, March 21 | Conference
8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | Lubar College of Business

Open to Middle and High School African American Males. The Summit invites middle and high school young men who are leaders in their schools to attend workshops facilitated by male role models from the community on what it takes to change the narrative in their lives today. Young Leaders will share information from the Summit with their peers at their school.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Ramona Sledge: rms2@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Black Student Cultural Center

A Night in Jordan

Wednesday, March 27 | Stargazing
7-8 p.m. | UWM Planetarium

Experience stars, stories, and cultural perspectives in Jordan. UWM’s very own Dr. Ahmad Abdelhadi will talk about his country, culture, and connections to the night sky. Enjoy coffee and treats after the program. The program will include an indoor stargazing session of the night sky followed by the opportunity to ask questions.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact UWM Planetarium: planetarium@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the UWM Planetarium

Trust & The Vote: The University and Its Role in Democracy

Thursday, March 28 | Workshop
1:30-3 p.m. | Virtual

A roundtable discussion with Ron Daniels (Johns Hopkins University), Davarian Baldwin (Trinity College), Bailee Jones (UWM student government). For virtual link information, please visit https://uwm.edu/c21/events/nourishing-democracy/trust-the-vote/

For more information contact the Center for 21st Century Studies: c21@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Center for 21st Century Studies

APRIL

Mind & Body Yoga: Trauma Sensitive Yoga

Tuesday, April 2 | Yoga Instruction
6-7 p.m. | Union Ballroom East

Join us for an enlightening session of Trauma Sensitive Yoga, tailored for the yoga community with a compassionate approach towards trauma survivors. Led by experienced instructions, this session emphasizes empowerment, fostering a sense of control and choice throughout the practice. Instruction provided by Moving Galaxy MKE.

For more information contact the Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming, Military and Veteran Resource Center, Student Health and Wellness, Peer Health Educators, and Women’s Resource Center

Trust & The Vote: Scaling Trust and the Emotions of Voting

Thursday, April 4 | Workshop
1:30-3 p.m. | Hybrid: Curtin 175 and Virtual

A roundtable with Shana Gadarian (Syracuse University), Loka Ashwood (University of Kentucky), Melody McCurtis (Metcalfe Park Community Bridges). For virtual link information, please visit https://uwm.edu/c21/events/nourishing-democracy/trust-the-vote/

For more information contact the Center for 21st Century Studies: c21@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Center for 21st Century Studies

Courageous Conversations: Being a Parent & Student

Tuesday, April 9 | Roundtable Discussion
12-1 p.m. | Inclusive Excellence Center, Union EG39

For more information contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming and the Inclusive Excellence Center

Lyrical Sanctuary Featuring Kyndal J.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming

Connecting Cultures: Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage

Wednesday, April 17 | Celebration
11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Union Concourse

Get ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of AAPI Heritage! Join us for music, delicious food, and an exciting cultural exploration that highlights the incredible diversity of fa American Pacific Islander Heritage. Don’t miss out on the festivities—it’s going to be a celebration to remember!

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming and the Southeast Asian American Student Center

Everything Everywhere All at Once

Wednesday, April 24 | Film Screening
6-8 p.m. | Union Cinema

Embark on a captivating journey during our AAPI Heritage Month film screening of “Everything Everywhere All At Once.” Celebrate the rich tapestry of Asian American and Pacific Islander stories as this cinematic marvel unfolds, seamlessly blending cultural nuances with mind-bending narrative twists. Join us for an evening of exploration, reflection, and connection as we showcase this extraordinary film that not only transcends genres but also pays homage to the diverse narratives within our AAPI community.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming, the Southeast Asian American Student Center, Chi Sigma Tau, and the Union Cinema

The Latinx Student Union Annual Dance: Tropicaile

Saturday, April 27 | Dance
6:30-9 p.m. | Union Ballroom

We are excited to present you with this year’s annual spring event, Tropicaile. Tropicaile is not just a dance, but a celebration of Latinx culture, diversity, and unity. It’s an event where students from various backgrounds come together to enjoy a night of music, dance, and cultural appreciation. Come enjoy music, dance, food, and a full night of dancing!

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Latinx Student Union: garci366@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Latinx Student Union, Society of Hispanic Engineers, Roberto Hernandez Center, and Latino America Unida Fraternity

MAY

Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration

Wednesday, May 1 | Celebration
11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Union Ballroom East

In celebration and appreciation for AAPI Heritage Month, we are bringing Milwaukee’s best AAPI foods and treats to UWM! Enjoy crafts, special performances, and vendors from Milwaukee’s AAPI community!

For more information or to request accommodations, contact the Southeast Asian American Student Center: uwm-seaasc@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming, the Southeast Asian American Student Center, Campus Activities Board, and the Inclusive Excellence Center

Lyrical Sanctuary Student Showcase

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming

Murdered and Missing in Montana

Thursday, May 2 | Film Screening
6-8 p.m. | Union Cinema

Join us for a compelling community screening of “Murdered and Missing in Montana,” a gripping documentary shedding light on the harrowing experiences faced by Indigenous communities. This poignant film not only addresses the urgent issue of missing and murdered individuals in Montana but also resonates with the nationwide call for action on the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women National Day of Awareness. Let’s come together to raise awareness, foster understanding, and advocate for justice for those whose voices need to be heard.

For more information or to request accommodations, contact Sociocultural Programming: sociocul@uwm.edu

Sponsored by Sociocultural Programming and Gerald L. Ignace Indian Health Center

Roberto Hernandez Center PALM 2024 Graduation Gala

Saturday, May 4 | Gala
5:30-9 p.m. | UWM Wisconsin Room

The Roberto Hernández Center will be hosting its Annual PALM (Promoting Academics in Latinx Milwaukee) Graduation Gala. Enjoy a night of emotional celebrations, a formal dinner, music, and commemorations. This event is also a fundraising effort to support emergency scholarships for future students.

For more information contact the Roberto Hernandez Center: rhc@uwm.edu

Sponsored by the Roberto Hernandez Center

Welcome to the Sociocultural Programming community here at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee!

“I can see myself in all things and all people around me.” – Sanskrit Phrase

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

Sociocultural Events for Spring 2024

JANUARY

Fraternity and Sorority Life Winter Carnival

FEBRUARY

UWM Libraries Distinctive Collections: Black History Pop-Up Exhibit

Black Student Cultural Center Winter Gathering

Lunar New Year

Diverse Ideas: w/ CopyWrite Magazine Creatives

Asian Faculty Meet & Greet w/ Dr. Xin Huang

Power of the Vote!

Black History Month in the Military

Tuesday Tea: Black History Month Edition

Power of the Vote!

A Night with Divine Nine Greek Life

Black History Month Trivia Night

Race, Justice, Power Undergraduate Conference

2nd Annual Black History Month Alumni Mixer

Distinguished Lecture Series: An Evening with Jessamyn Stanley

Come On In, Your Body’s Fine!

MARCH

Asian Faculty Meet & Greet w/ Dr. Vipavee Thongpriwan

The Summit on Black Male Youth

A Night in Jordan

Trust & The Vote: The University and Its Role in Democracy

APRIL

Trust & The Vote: Scaling Trust and the Emotions of Voting

The Latinx Student Union Annual Dance: Tropicaile

MAY

Roberto Hernandez Center PALM 2024 Graduation Gala