PSEI celebrates 1.. lack History with live music, play by Steve Standridge Capital Times Staff Reporter In 1915, noted black scholar and historian, Carter G. Woodson founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The organization would later initiate Black History Week, which was celebrated in the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. In 1976, as part of America's Bicentennial celebration, Black History Week was expanded to Black History Month as we now know it. Now, it is proudly celebrated by people everywhere. Most of us know the names of notable black activists such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Bob Marley, but know very little about their work. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is possibly the most notable civil rights leader in American history. He constantly spoke out about equality and civil rights for all people. He was a non-violent leader who con- sidered his faith in everything he did. He believed that love would conquer all. "I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word in reality," said King. His birthday is celebrated as a national holiday. Did you know that it was not cele brated in all 50 states until 1999? The holiday is now celebrated in more that 100 countries worldwide. Malcolm X was also an avid civil rights champion. He studied Islam for years and was outspoken on issues of black unity. He founded the Organization of Afro-American Unity, a political group. Late in his life, he turned his focus to the equality of all men. "It is not a case of our people... wanting either separa tion or integration. The use of these words actually clouds the real picture. The 22 million Afro- Americans don't seek either separation or integra tion. They seek recognition and respect as human beings." Malcolm X. Robert Nesta Marley, better known as Bob, is syn onymous with Jamaica and reggae music. Marley was also an outspoken civil rights leader. He was not afraid to speak out against the oppressive govern ment in his home country of Jamaica. He traveled all over the world spreading his message of "one love." This message was about people of all colors living together and loving each other. "I believe in freedom for everyone, not just the black man," said Marley. There are many great African American authors who had a lot to say about civil rights and black his tory. Go check out a book or two by Ralph Ellison, Richard Wright, or Toni Morrison. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is perhaps the most well known African American organization. It was founded on February 12, 1909 in New York City by a group of black and white citizens. Its principal objective is "to ensure political, educational, social and economic equality of minority group citizens of the United States." The long and storied history of the NAACP includes a commitment to non-violence. One doesn't have to look far to see role models like these, however. Kenisha Davis, president of Penn State Harrisburg's Black Student Union, says that in addition to Dr. King and Malcolm X, she also admires our own Dr. Clem Gilpin and Dr. Felicia Brown- Haywood. "They do really great work here on campus," said Davis. Now that you know a little bit more about the history behind Black History Month, here's what you can do to learn more. Penn State Harrisburg is offering several events during its Black Heritage Celebration such as a dance class with live African drummers, speakers, live music, and re-enactments. For more info, look for the red, gold, and green colored posters on the walls. Penn State Harrisburg's Black Student Union is also offering several unique events in February. There will be a coffee house, a play, and a multicultural noon time series featuring "African Resurrection," a West African drum, dance and folklore celebration. The BSU is also planning a trip to Harlem, NY in early March to visit the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. This trip will include tours, exhibitions, perform ances, shopping, and dining. If Penn State Harrisburg doesn't offer enough for you, other area schools are having events. Lebanon Valley College is offering their "Africa Colloquium" through mid-February. It includes art exhibits, film, discussion, music and lec ture. All events are free. For more info, call (717) 867-6445. Dickinson College is offering a two-day symposium on the Underground Railroad to include speakers and presentations. This is also free. For more info, call (717) 245- 1875. OPERATION SOUPBOWL SGA gives away free soup to students coming in from the cold The Lion Ambassadors and the Student Government Association offered their time and service to distribute the soup between 4:30 and 6:00 p.m. "It is a great way to keep the cold out:' said Jessica Stehley, president of the Lion Ambassadors. "And it's a welcome to the new semester." Paml Luthra, SGA president added, "We are con tinually doing something random for the students." "Student activities and SGA thought it would be a kind gesture to the school to provide a burst of warmth during this cold time of year." said Mary Anne T. Nguyen, Vice presidents for the SGA. "It was also a great way for SGA to integrate with the Lion Ambassadors and do something together for the school!" Students drifted in from the cold air to warm up to a free bowl of soup in the lobby of Olmsted from January 20-23. Photo by Bob Fitch/ Black Star Above: Martin Luther King Jr., poses beside a picture of Ghandi, whom King modeled many of his philosophies after. Left: Bob Marley props up against his acoustic guitar. by Rachel Shepherd Capital Times Staff Reporter Nguyen considers the idea the brainchild of when she collaborated with the Ambassadors and the Student Activities to enact. The students thought it was a great idea and seized the bowl of soup without hesitation. "The creamy vegetable was exquisite," said Josh Kochevar, humanities. "Just the right amount of vegetables." "Now I am ready to face the cold air," added Jennifer Lose, 23, communications. According to Nguyen the Student Activities often times think up of ways to give to the students. "SGA has started Random Acts of Kindness which began last semester," she explained. "It was a way for SGA to randomly sur prise students with some type of giveaway. We will be doing more this semester. So keep your eye out, you may be the next candidate for Random Acts of Kindness!"
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