Chico State's Unity Fest Celebrates African Heritage Feb 22

Students at California State University, Chico are turning Black History Month into a massive community celebration that welcomes everyone through the doors.

The Black Student Union's annual Victory in Unity event returns February 22, transforming the Bell Memorial Union into a vibrant gathering space from 1 to 5 p.m. The afternoon promises live performances, DJ music, games, a community dinner, and a resource fair connecting students with local organizations.

"Victory in Unity represents the resilience of our communities and the responsibility we share to create spaces of belonging, advocacy, and celebration," said Trynnitty Saucer-Williams, Black Student Union president. "Honoring our past while inspiring our future is at the heart of this event."

The celebration kicks off with a rally at Trinity Commons at 1 p.m., followed by a resource fair at 1:45 p.m. Kevin Thompson, CEO of the Oroville Southside Community Improvement Association, delivers the keynote address at 3:15 p.m., sharing insights from his work feeding hungry and unhoused community members.

Live performances begin at 3:45 p.m., leading into a community dinner that runs until 6 p.m. The event is completely open to students, families, businesses, and anyone from Butte County who wants to join.

The Ripple Effect

This celebration represents something bigger than a single afternoon. By centering African heritage while welcoming all communities, the Black Student Union is modeling the kind of inclusive gathering spaces that strengthen entire regions.

At Chico State, where nearly half of students are the first in their families to pursue a four-year degree, events like Victory in Unity create belonging for students navigating new territory. The involvement of local organizations, from KZFR radio to Action News Now, shows how campus celebrations can energize entire counties.

The event draws support from across the university, including Student Life and Leadership, the President's Office, and the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Community partners like the Southside Oroville Community Center and MLK Unity Group are joining forces to make the day memorable.

Volunteers and vendors are still welcome to sign up, though organizers note that fundraising activities aren't permitted during the event to keep the focus on connection and celebration.

This year's theme pays tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy while celebrating the ongoing strength of Black, Indigenous, and people of color communities across California and beyond.