“The Soul Food Café is a favorite, usually the last event in our month-long celebration,” said Marvin Lorenzana, director of multicultural services. EMU will host a variety of events, including the Soul Food Cafe, to celebrate Black History Month.

EMU Celebrates Black History Month

by Mike Zucconi

Eastern Mennonite University’s (EMU) office of multicultural services and the Black Student Union are hosting several events to honor the history and heritage of African-Americans during “Black History Month.”

Activities opened on Friday, Feb. 3, with a university chapel presentation by Luke Hartman, vice president for enrollment. Hartman spoke on the theme, “honoring the past” and why it is important to do so.

Upcoming Black History Month events

  • Movie Night! “Gifted Hands,” to be shown in Campus Center room 105 (Strite Hall) on Wednesday, Feb. 8, at 7 p.m. Snacks will be served.
  • “Rejoice and Shout!” To be shown in Science Center Auditorium (Room 106) on Friday, Feb. 10, at 8 p.m., and Saturday, Feb. 11, at 10 p.m. Admission is $1.50 with EMU student identification. Sponsored by the campus activities council. 
  • Voting registration on Wednesday, Feb. 15, from 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., and 3-6 p.m. in South Dining Hall.
  • University chapel forum on “Inspiring the Future,” with Esther Nizer, president of the Harrisonburg chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, on Friday, Feb. 17, at 10 a.m., in Lehman Auditorium.
  • A student and faculty panel discussion on race, diversity and self-segregation on EMU’s campus. The event will be held on Monday, Feb. 20, from 8-9 p.m., in Common Grounds Coffeehouse. Admission is free.
  • The annual Soul Food Café is back, 6-8 p.m., Friday, Feb. 24. Come and enjoy a traditional African American dish while listening (and participating) in a surprise program. This annual event will be held in Martin Chapel of the Seminary building. General admission is $10 for faculty, staff and non-EMU students. EMU students get in free with student identification.
  • Jam Session! On Saturday, Feb. 25, jam out with TBO (The Best Out!) in Martin Chapel at 7 p.m.

“The Soul Food Café is a favorite, usually the last event in our month-long celebration,” said Marvin Lorenzana, director of multicultural services at EMU. “Come join us for any of these activities for worship, music, food and meaningful conversation.”

For more information, contact Marvin Lorenzana at 540-432-4458 or email marvin.lorenzana@emu.edu.