African Heritage Week 2014
Jan 24, 2014 | Kristi Lynch
February 10-14, 2014 will mark African Heritage Week at the University of Dubuque. The week-long cultural experience, sponsored by the University's Office of Multicultural Student Engagement, will showcase the history, experiences, and culture throughout the African diaspora. Week-night events are free and open to the public; tickets for Friday’s banquet celebration are $7 for non-UD students/community members and $5 for UD students/faculty/staff. Advance banquet reservations can be made by calling 563.589.3129 or emailing mellis@dbq.edu by Wednesday, February 12.
“African Heritage Week will feature numerous events celebrating the African diaspora,” stated Mishereen Ellis, director of multicultural student engagement. “This celebration is a new and exciting way for us to recognize Black History Month. Attendees will experience and learn new things about black culture and history that’s not typically taught in the classroom, and that goes beyond our American Shores. The week-long event will culminate with the Heritage Celebration Banquet on Friday night.”
Events throughout the week include:
Monday, February 10
Panel Discussion - “The use of the “N” word in the black community”
6:00 p.m., Alumni Hall
This event, will include a panel of varied opinions on the use of the “N” word in the black community. We will address questions such as why is it “ok” to still use this word, why is it “not ok” for whites to use this term, etc.
Tuesday, February 11
Film and Discussion - Malcolm X, Our American Hero
6:00 p.m., University Science Center, Room 228 – Zuker Reading Room
This event will highlight some of Malcolm X’s most famous speeches and documentaries. Throughout the event there will be conversations about Mr. X’s philosophy and its relevance to our society today.
Wednesday, February 12
Story Telling
7:00 p.m., University Science Center, Room 228 – Zucker Reading Room
This event will highlight the importance of storytelling in the African diaspora tradition. We will highlight some of the most famous folklores and stories from throughout the diaspora. Others will also be able to share their stories as well in order to learn from one another.
Thursday, February 13
Black History Month Trivia Competition (Team entry required)
7:00 p.m., University Science Center, Room 305
This event will be a fun, yet educational trivia game show competition. Teams of 5 can enter to be a part of this game show. The show will consist of black history facts. Prizes will be given to the winners.
Friday, February 14
Heritage Banquet (Soul Food edition)
6:00 p.m., Alumni Hall
The annual Heritage Banquet, will focus on the soul food culture in the African American community. The theme of this year’s event will be the “traditions of the black church”. There will be a variety of performances, and a sermon delivered by UD alum Reverend John Taylor. To rsvp for this event please contact Mishereen Ellis at mellis@dbq.edu or 563.589.3129
