During Black History Month, ENC’s Intercultural Center is hosting a wide variety of events–from documentaries to excursions into Boston–for anyone and everyone who wants to attend. Their goal is to engage people on a fun and cultural level.
Associate Dean for Multicultural Affairs Robert Benjamin, who is in charge of these events, believes that they are very important for students so they can become more engaged and culturally aware of the history of African-Americans.
Benjamin believes that cultural heritage is of particular importance. Reviewing this history allows one to see what accomplishments people have made, and what they have contributed to all of humanity; it also shows their potential.
“History says there is intrinsic value here, and here’s why,” says Benjamin.
Honoring the accomplishments of a people demonstrates their value. If their contributions to mankind are not recognized, then their value is diminished. Focusing on African-American history this month is an attempt to introduce students to the heritage of a people.
On Wednesday, February 17, the documentary “Traces of the Trade” will be screened in Shrader Lecture Hall. This film is about a family’s participation in the slave trade in Rhode Island, and is told from the perspective of one of the grandchildren in the family.
The Intercultural Center will also be hosting its usual Exotic Drinks and conversation event on Feb.19, and the following day’s activity will consist of a trip into Boston to visit the African American Meeting House/Museum. Transportation will be provided.
The last week of February there will be a sandwich seminar in the President’s Dining Room. Professor Montague Williams will give a talk titled “Black Lives Matter: A Christian Response.” The event takes place at 12:30pm on Thursday, February 25. ENC’s observance of Black History Month will come to a close with the Pan African Culture show on Feb. 26.