Black History Kick-Off

By: Derek Nettingham

Black history month is often overlooked and overshadowed not just on Colorado States campus, but across the globe. But to many it seems that CSU is making the correct steps to making African American students feel validated on campus during this special month. But not all feel the love.

Abyssinian Christian Adult Choir

“It just seems like nobody cares anymore. Just from what I have seen year by year the only thing people really recognize is the MLK walks at the beginning of the month.”

Senior Sociology major, DeAngelo Jones, feels as if College campuses do not properly document and promote the events that take place in honor of Black History month.

“I see all those posters of that guy around, Josh Gracin, and he even has his own cutout! But the posters for Lee Daniels are just regular sized.”

However some students like 21-year- old Psychology major Josh Bond beg to differ. Although he recognizes the shortcomings of Colorado State in the diversity department, he does give credit to the events that have gone on and feels that CSU is moving in the right direction for change.

“I had a great time at the opening ceremony. I know to some it wasn’t much but anytime I have the opportunity to come together with students of a similar background and mindset as me. It’s a breath of fresh air in my book.”

The ceremony on Feb. 1 at the unique time of 12:05pm consisted of the reciting of the Black National Anthem and joyous choir selections by the Abyssinian Christian Adult Choir. As the members of the audience swayed back and forth to the rich voices of the singers, bystanders or passersby occasionally entered the commons of the basement of the Lory Student Center to see either see what was going on or simply enjoy a hymn or two.

“I just walked by and the music sounded great so I stopped. This is awesome you can feel the energy in the room for sure,” said Communications Senior, Zenas Willard.

Afterwards students and faculty alike and of all cultures and backgrounds enjoyed cake and refreshments while discussing whatever came to mind.

“I enjoyed the ceremony! It’s just a great way to kick things off on a positive note because so many different types of people are here. Singing, dancing, talking, it’s pretty cool to see and be a part of,” said Willard.

But the festivities do not stop there. Events will be going on all month long and you can keep track of what is coming by either looking at one of the Black History Month schedules or simply pop into the Black/African American Culture Center and ask a desk employee to help you out.

“People can just come in and ask, we’d be more than happy to assist them in any way we can. Although putting all of these events together is stressful at times we must remember the big picture, that this is a celebration,” said BACC desk staff member Ed Harland.

Some of the highlight events for Black History Month are guest speaker Lee Daniels, the creator of the hit movie “Precious”, and popular rap artist Wale is scheduled to perform on Feb. 25.