|
Black History Month was held on campus in February 2009, and included events celebrating contributions made to the world by people of African descent.
The fourth annual African Diaspora Festival—AfroFest— began with a Taste of the Diaspora; in a private buffet-style partition, students alongside several local restaurateurs offered small samples of African-influenced dishes, with awards for the most popular.
The Opening Ceremonies featured students and guest performers, including the University of Windsor Jazz Ensemble and students from Wayne State University, to celebrate the contributions of the African Diaspora culture through music.
The International African Inventor Museum, a mobile museum, featured a range of inventions made by people of African descent. The museum promotes positive images and self-esteem in children and adults, and teaches people of all nationalities about the contributions Africans have made to society.
A dynamic speaker gave a free open lecture on a variety of issues relating to matters concerning education within the black culture and the African Diaspora, and selected controversial music videos, black television shows and critically acclaimed films and documentaries were shown one evening; followed by an interactive open forum discussion.
A two-day art gala and exhibition presented the works of students and artists within the Windsor-Detroit community with subjects also relating to the African Diaspora.
The “Legacy of Dance“ was an innovative mixture of entertainment and education. Local fraternities and sororities link step danced to today’s current dance styles to highlight the contributions that the African Diaspora has made to the world of dance.
UWindsor and Wayne State University students and members of the community were also able to participate in an intimate evening of poetry, visual art and song. As the event landed on Bob Marley’s birthday, homage was paid to the artist’s strive for unity amongst all people.
The Closing Celebration featured a Ballet Creole Workshop, as well as a Black Alumni Networking Conference & Redefinition. A formal dinner gala featured a panel discussion about leadership and opportunities among students of African descent on campus, including panel speakers; three University of Windsor alumni and three current student leaders. Followed by a networking session. Redefinition is an innovative and inspiring performance to close the African Diaspora Festival. An afternoon of live music and entertainment featured a collection of artists.
|
