Events for The Black Student Union

In celebration of Black History Month The Black Student Union is sponsoring four events in honor of the theme "Reclaiming Black History."

February 4th 2010
7pm	Panel Discussion Kaneko The theme for this month is “Reclaiming Black History Month,” and the purpose of the panel is not only to address the misrepresentation of blacks throughout history, but also to acknowledge the damaging effects of the white narrative has on all people of color. This conversation will have five panelists and they will be discussing the “White Narrative” has affected history as we know it in America. We will have questions tailored towards this topic that will be answered and discussed by panelists from the Willamette community.
February 11th 2010
7pm	Open Mic Night: Reclaiming Black History Bistro As a part of the second week of Black History Month, the Black Student Union is holding an Open Mic which carries the theme “Reclaiming Black History Month.” This Open Mic Night will include a range of students sharing either pieces of their own writing or pieces that have been written by others but apply to the given theme. Students will be invited to join in this opportunity to hear the voices of their fellow Willamette students and be a part of reclaiming and honoring of black History Month.
February 23rd 2010
7pm	Guest Speaker Damali Ayo TBA Damali Ayo uses art, wit and satire to generate dialogue to draw us together as a global community. Her best-selling book How to Rent a Negro is a satirical guidebook that explores the commodification of race relations in our culture. damali's newest book (2010) Obamistan! Land without Racism has been described as "laying bare the fact that we are not in a post-racial world just yet with great warmth, sincerity, sophistication about the experiences of different groups and a sense of hope and optimism -- something that sometimes feels completely missing among progressives these days." Damali's passion for smart comedy takes center stage in her presentations, lectures and even in her teaching style. Influenced by comedy greats such as Dick Gregory, Mort Sahl, Lenny Bruce, and even a little Eddie Murphy, damali makes the hard issues easier through her signature style that leaves audiences with their attention heightened, hearts open, and minds awake. In this spirit, damali invites everyday people to participate in her "Living Flag" performance each year on the "National Day of Panhandling for Reparations." So far over 100 performers in 30 states and 3 countries have been involved.
February 27th 2010
10pm	Rep Yo' Class Dance: Mardi Gras Theme CAT Cavern We are going to finish the month off with an exciting and memorable dance, encompassing the spirit of unification between the classes by showing their spirit as not only classes but as members of the broader Willamette Community. Pride and Unity, show your class spirit. Seniors wear Green. Juniors wear Black. Sophomores wear Gold. Freshmen wear Purple. It's a masquerade so make your outfit a fun one ☻