A interactive lecture and discussions on the life of civil rights pioneer Mary Ellen Pleasant, and a performance by the renowned Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, are just a few of the highlights of this year's Black History Month at Sonoma State University.
The first event in the month-long celebration intended to bring awareness and insight of black culture to the SSU campus is Monday, Feb. 10. The lecture, titled "Meet Mary Ellen Pleasant." features a re-enactment on the life of Mary Ellen Pleasant, often called "the mother of civil rights in California." Pleasant scholar Susheel Bibbs will re-enact her life in music and drama in the 19th century chautauqua style.
A gospel extravaganza at 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20 in the Cooperage will feature the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir. Other performers include gospel rap artist Derrick Forbes, Lighthouse Gospel Choir, and more. Admission is free for SSU students and $12 for general admission.
There are also a number of events during the month that are targeted towards students. These include a Comedy Night at 9 p.m., on Thursday Feb. 13 at the Cooperage and the Soul Food "special dinner" held in the Zinfandel Dining Hall Tuesday Feb. 11 from 5-7.
