SU continues traditional celebration of Black History Month

SU continues traditional celebration of Black History MonthJanuary 30, 2004Michele Barrettmibarret@syr.edu

Following a longstanding tradition at Syracuse University, February’s Black History Month will showcase several events – including speakers, dining hall celebrations and special radio programming – to raise awareness and honor the global history of people of African descent.

“Black History Month is now 78 years old. During this timeframe, commemorations of African American history across the United States have allowed for the identification and celebration of the contributions of African American people in our history and in our presence,” says Barry L. Wells, senior vice president and dean of student affairs. “While Black History Month promotes African American cultural empowerment and understanding, it also inspires learning for all age groups and ethnicities.”

The celebration will include a presentation on Feb. 4 by Oba T’Shaka, professor of black studies at the University of San Francisco and author of “The Art of Leadership” volumes I and II, “Return to the African Mother Principle of Male and Female Equality” and “Integration Trap: Generation Gap.” The lecture is free and open to the public, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Goldstein Auditorium in the Schine Student Center. Earlier that day, T’Shaka will conduct a leadership workshop titled “Leadership Training to Bridge the Generation Gap.”

“We have been working with Dr. T’Shaka for several months to finalize his visit to campus, and his arrival promises to bring the audience and workshop participants powerful and inspirational messages on understanding and counteracting forces that have weakened African American leadership traditions,” says Cynthia N. Fulford, associate director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs. “His presence-and his presentation-are certainly a great way to celebrate African American history.”

T’Shaka is a renowned public speaker who addresses international audiences; he has been active in black freedom movements since 1960. He is currently the national vice chairperson for the National Black United Front and is one of the key architects of the African Centered Educational Movement. His presentations at SU are sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs, the Kaleidoscope Project and the departments of African American Studies, Child and Family Studies, and Women’s Studies.

SU’s residential dining centers will host a Black History Month Dinner on Feb. 4 with a special menu and posted information, including maps and details on famous African American leaders throughout history. A copy of the presidential proclamation creating Black History Month will be posted in the dining centers, and video monitors will show “That’s Black Entertainment,” a two-volume video about African Americans in the entertainment industry. Dining centers will also host One World Dinner on Feb. 24, incorporating ethnic menu items from around the world. Other Black History Month events will include:

Ailey II Dance CompanyFeb. 3, 8 p.m. – Goldstein Auditorium, Schine Student CenterThe renowned dance company – created to give young dancers the chance to develop their talents on national tours – will present its mix of ballet, jazz and ethnic choreography. The event is sponsored by Pulse; it is open to the public, and tickets are on sale at the Schine Box Office for $5 with SU I.D. and $8 for all others.

“Innovative Artist and Teacher,” featuring the art of Hale A. WoodruffOpening reception Feb. 5, 6-8 p.m. – Joseph I. Lubin House, New YorkCo-sponsored by the Friends of Syracuse University, the Community Folk Art Gallery, Lubin House and the Program Development Office, this exhibition will showcase the paintings of noted artist Hale A. Woodruff and celebrate his work’s connection to Black History Month. The exhibition continues through Feb. 27.

“Cultural Roots,” presented by the Paul Robeson Performing Arts CompanyFeb. 5, 8 p.m. – Schine Student Center UndergroundThe program will feature the Mozambique Dance and Drum Troupe and the Blues Symposium with Guy Davis and Karen Patterson. The event is sponsored by the Dean of Students Office, Division of Student Affairs. Tickets are available at the Schine Box Office and are free with SU I.D., $5 for all others.

Social Justice SaturdayFeb. 7, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. – E.S. Bird Library, 1916 RoomSponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs in collaboration with the LGBT Resource Center and the Office of Residence Life, this workshop will provide students with the opportunity to explore issues and challenges including race, ethnicity, gender and sexual identity. The event will be facilitated by Monroe France, coordinator of social justice programs at New York University. Registration is required; call (315) 443-9676 for more information.

University Lecture by E. Stanley O’Neal: “Taking the Bull by its Horns”Feb. 24, 4 p.m. – College of Law, Grant AuditoriumSince taking the helm as CEO of Merrill Lynch, O’Neal has enforced strict fiscal discipline within the financial services giant. A special guest of the University Lectures, O’Neal comes to Syracuse to discuss his management style and the challenges of leadership as a corporate CEO. His lecture is free and open to the public; for more information call (315) 443-2941 or e-mail eegray@syr.edu.

Gospel ExtravaganzaFeb. 29, 5-7 p.m. – Hendricks ChapelThe event will feature gospel recording artist Minister William D. Carter III, as well as information on the historical roots of gospel and spiritual music. A local gospel choir will also perform.

WAER 88.3 FM – Black History Month radio programmingThe radio station’s special programming will include “Political Awakening: Askia Muhammad’s Reflections on the 60s,” to air Feb. 15 at 1 p.m., and “Mississippi Becomes a Democracy,” Feb. 22 at 1 p.m.

In addition, the station will focus on African American jazz artists during February and will air several “moments to remember” spots describing memorable events and figures. WAER and the Central New York Jazz Arts Foundation will also present singer Jacque Tara Washington in a one-woman show, Feb. 8 at Justin’s Grill. The program will examine her personal journey through life as a female African American artist. Call 437-1461 for reservations.

For more information on Black History Month activities, please contact the Office of Multicultural Affairs at 443-9676.