January 26, 2000

Black History Month 2000 "Honoring the Past - Embracing the Future"

Sonoma State University's Black Student Union (BSU) has been a chartered student organization for more than 15 years. The BSU seeks to form a strong, supportive, and unified community in which all students, staff, and local residents can thrive academically, socially, and personally. In addition, the BSU is dedicated to attracting students of color to the campus and promoting higher education to African American youth. Perhaps the most visible aspect of the BSU mission is to further the cultural and social development of the university and its surrounding community through informational, entertaining, and educational events. Traditionally, a significant portion of such events has taken place during Black History Month.

Every year, Black History Month is observed nationally during the month of February; Sonoma State's BSU has joined the rest of the country in celebrating the occasion. The original objective of Black History Month was to recognize black contributions to United States history. The BSU intends to widen the objective to include the entire African Diaspora and today's cultural perspectives. The BSU's planned events during the month of February reflect this nontraditional approach.

(Admission free unless otherwise indicated).

Opening Ceremony: Tuesday, February 8 - Stevenson Quadrangle (Noon - 1:00pm)

Food Sale/Open-Mic: Thursday, February 10 - Stevenson Quad (Noon - 1pm)

"Heart and Souls" Gospel Concert: Sunday, February 13 - Santa Rosa High School Auditorium (3:00-5:00 p.m.); $10 Admission (children under 10 free)

Soul Food Dinner: Tuesday, February 15 - Zinfandel Dining Room (5:00pm - 7:00pm); $8.25 Buffet

African Dance & Drum Exhibit: Thurs., February 17-MultiPurpose Rm (Noon - 1pm)

High School Day: Tuesday, February 22 - All day, Campuswide

Susheel Bibbs/Chataquan Performance of Mary Ellen Pleasant: Tuesday, February 22 - 7-9 p.m., Warren Auditorium

Closing Ceremony: Thursday, February 24 - MultiPurpose Room (6:00pm - 9:00pm)

The BSU's celebration of the African Diaspora during February 2000 promises to be an enriching experience for all who participate.

For more information:

http://www.sonoma.edu/ICC/


Jean Wasp
Media Relations Coordinator
University Affairs
(707) 664-2057
jean.wasp@sonoma.edu