SIUE Opens its Black Heritage Month with Singing, Tumbling and Introductions
A rousing A capella rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and rhythmic acrobats drew a crowd to the opening ceremony of Black Heritage Month in the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Goshen Lounge.
The SIUE Gospel choir sang two songs: The Negro National Anthem and “He’s Still Alive.” Turning the Goshen into a gymnasium of sorts were the impressive, tumbling feats of the Zuzu African Acrobats from Mombasa, Kenya. The program closed with introductions of presidents of minority organizations on campus.
The annual month-long celebration at SIUE is an important one, said Mariah Young, graduate assistant in charge of the University’s Black Heritage Month, sponsored by the Campus Activities Board (CAB).
“We’re trying to add to the education and experience of the students,” Young said.
The Zuzu African Acrobats Hamisi Kitole, Garama Katana, Katana Ngala, Charo Mnuika and Shee Kironda, were able to get many students to join in on the fun of their performance.
“They all have been doing acrobats since they were five or six,” said Stephan Huller, promoter. “They grew up together and went to school together. Whatever money they make, they send back to their families and communities in Kenya. They have been in the U.S. since 2006.”
“This is a celebration of you, and what we are all about at SIUE,” Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Nobby Emmanuel told the crowd. “We believe in the richness and wealth of opportunities for us to grow and learn. I hope you take advantage of each of these programs to learn about yourselves and others. If you fail to learn about others, you have missed an opportunity to grow.”
Black Heritage Month also affords an opportunity for a brighter tomorrow, according to Young.
“It’s important to learn and know how the past affects the future, and to realize how to move forward towards a better future,” she said.
“Black Heritage Month should be celebrated all year long,” said Sadie Banks, chair of the Black Heritage Month committee. “It’s important for African Americans, other races and other cultures to learn about the contributions African Americans have made to the country and to the world.”
Scheduled for Tuesday:
Ferguson Art Gallery Exhibit
12-2 p.m.
Goshen Lounge
Come see an exhibit of photography taken by Christian Lee of photos from Ferguson protests.
For a complete listing of events, visit SIUE Black Heritage Month.
