African-American History Month just isn’t enough. African-American History Decade may not be, either.
Southwestern College took a crack at recognizing the enormous contributions of African-Americans in American culture, politics, religion, sports and academics. Students got a small but illustrative sample of the power and beauty of African-Americans through the centuries.
Telecommunications instructor Peter Maxwell and musician Scott Paulson presented an epic film from 1920, “Within Our Gates,” directed by legendary Oscar Micheaux, which protested racial violence. The film is a counterpoint to D.W. Griffith’s racist portrayal of African-Americans in his 1915 film “Birth of a Nation.” Paulson and his group provided a musical score for the silent film.
Professor of History Stanley James gave a presentation on some forgotten aspects of black history.
“I attempt to put back into history those things which have largely been lost and overlooked,” he said.
James discussed what he felt was an inaccurate portrayal of America’s first black President, Barack Obama, and the landmark healthcare bill he passed.
“Being African-American means to go about life with courage and determination and recognizing that you never concern yourself with those people who worry about your food stamps and that type of concept,” he said. “We continue onward and we never worry about who ignored us. If anything they have their origins from us. All people come from Africa.”
The walkway leading to Mayan Hall filled with students and guests hungry to experience the African-American cuisine and vendor fair. Booths gathered people to sell their culturally rich products that symbolized the celebration of their heritage.
“I’m trying to fund raise for the Academic Cultural Technological and Scientific Olympics,” said Kimberly Caldwell. “It’s for a high school youth program. We’re selling some of the quilts and pillows that I make.”
SWC Ceramics Lab Tech George Essex displayed his art while demonstrating the steps to creating it, all while blindfolded.
“I am just displaying these pieces of ceramics pots and sculptures made by my students and I,” he said. “Some are even replicas of African masks that the school owns.”
Local artist Silfredo La O, 37, drummed cultural beats of his homeland Cuba, while guest chef Ursula Morris-Williams prepared soul food for guests in the SWC cafeteria.
With guests coming and going, guests enjoyed their meal, along with performances by Janite Polite and Earthmovers rocked the diners. All proceeds were given to the African-American Scholarship Fund.