Central Michigan University

Friday, February 1, 2008

CMU celebrates Black History Month

In honor of Black History Month, Central Michigan University will celebrate the many contributions and achievements of African-Americans with a number of activities, celebrations and educational events. The month's activities conclude on Feb. 20 with a keynote speech by renowned poet Nikki Giovanni.

The 7 p.m. speech in Warriner Hall's Plachta Auditorium is free.

A noted African-American author and poet, Giovanni currently serves as a Distinguished Professor of English at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. She most recently was recognized for her inspirational words closing the convocation ceremony honoring the victims of the April 2007 massacre at the university.

Other campus events observing Black History Month include:

• A "ThinkFast" Trivia Game at 6 p.m. Feb. 4 in the Bovee University Center Rotunda. Individuals will test their knowledge of African-American history, music, movies and more. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, call Minority Student Services at 989-774-3945.
• A screening of the film "The Untold Story of Emmett Till" at 7 p.m. Feb. 5 in Warriner Hall's Plachta Auditorium. A discussion led by civil rights activist Alvin Sykes will follow. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, call Program Board at 989-774-3174.
• The sixth annual Hair and Fashion Extravaganza at 7 p.m. Feb. 8 in Warriner Hall's Plachta Auditorium. Sponsored by the Organization for Black Unity, the show will feature students modeling clothing by various companies, as well as original designs by students and others. Tickets cost $5 in advance and can be purchased at the Central Box Office on the lower level of the Bovee University Center or by calling 989-774-3000 or 888-CMU-0111. Tickets also will be available at the door for $7.
• The sixth annual Night of Apollo talent show at 7 p.m. Feb. 9 in Warriner Hall's Plachta Auditorium. The show, which is sponsored by the Organization for Black Unity, will feature performances by students and others and will include singing, dancing, rapping, poetry and more. The audience will judge participants and the winner will receive a cash prize. Tickets for the event cost $5 and can be purchased at the Central Box Office on the lower level of the Bovee University Center or by calling 989-774-3000 or 888-CMU-0111. Tickets also can be purchased at the door for $7. For more information or to register to participate in the show, e-mail Sabreen Sharrief at sharr1sf@cmich.edu.
• The annual Black Family Reunion food taster at 5 p.m. Feb. 19 in the Bovee University Center Rotunda. The event will feature classic soul food such as collard greens, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, dressing, turkey, and gravy. Admission costs $3 for students and $5 for all others. For more information, call Minority Student Services at 989-774-3945.
• A speech by renowned poet Nikki Giovanni at 7 p.m. Feb. 20 in Warriner Hall's Plachta Auditorium; the presentation will be the keynote speech for CMU's celebration of Black History Month. Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, call Minority Student Services at 989-774-3945.