On the morning of Thursday, April 15, 1971, approximately 70 members of the University of Florida Black Student Union went to the university’s main administrative building, Tigert Hall, with a list of six demands addressed to UF’s then-president Stephen O’Connell. The demands were initiatives and action to support the experience for and education of Black students. After three attempts to present their concerns to O’Connell, the students refused to leave.
This year marks the 50th Anniversary of the Black Thursday protest. We honor the legacy of and sacrifice made by students, faculty and staff who forever changed the trajectory of the University of Florida with a series of educational events.
Events
These events are hosted by Black Affairs, the Black Student Union, the Black Graduate Student Organization, and the Samuel Proctor Oral History Program.
IBC
Tours
In-person and virtual
tours about the history
of the Institute of
Black Culture
are available
April 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
1510 W. University Ave.

