UNG celebrates black culture during Black History Month

In celebration of Black History Month, the Black Student Union (BSU) at the University of North Georgia (UNG) Gainesville Campus is hosting a variety of events to showcase the past, present and future of black culture. 

On Feb. 8, Brittney Yancy, event coordinator for BSU, presented a discussion of black-on-black crime – whether it exists, its origins, and how it effects modern life in black communities. The event was one of a series of presentations about portrayal of race in media.

After viewing a documentary that discussed race supremacy in social, economic and political terms and how these have affected the black community throughout the evolution of American history, students talked about the issues presented in the film.

"The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA) and the BSU strive to provide a forum for discussing the needs of our different communities, and aim to build a better society through understanding and dialogue," said Robert Robinson, director of multicultural student affairs. 

Several students discussed the evidence laid out by the documentary of black crime stemming from racism, while others said that internal issues such as poverty and poor education were the main causes of this type of crime.

Chelsea Belizaire, president of the Gainesville Campus’ BSU, said, "I believe that BSU will continue to promote conversations about issues regarding diversity and share the rich history that the black community has to offer, as well foster leaders with innovative ideas for discussion and potential community service."

The event ended with an agreement from both the audience members and Yancy that issues involving black crime have continued to grow from unresolved social problems where pitfalls in education and economic development in these communities are the aftermath.  According to Yancy, it is for this reason that the BSU holds these sessions — so that anyone can be involved in the conversation that continues to shape a future that concerns all Americans. 

Events scheduled for the remainder of the month include:

• Feb. 22 – Gainesville Campus – BSU Presents: Way Back Wednesday, noon to 1 p.m., Student Center, Robinson Ballroom 
• Feb. 22 – Oconee Campus – Movie presentation of "Loving," noon to 2 p.m. and 5-7 p.m., room 522  
• Feb. 22 – Dahlonega Campus – MSA presents The Great Debate: The Future of Black History Month, noon to 1 p.m., location TBA 
• Feb. 23 – Dahlonega Campus – Movie presentation of "Loving," 7-9:30 p.m., Hoag Auditorium 
• Feb. 23 – Gainesville Campus – Movie presentation of "Higher Learning" – Set on a university campus, the film discusses racial tension, the purpose of an education, and responsibility in college. 6-9 p.m. Robinson Ballroom.
• Feb. 24 – Gainesville Campus – Movie presentation of "Loving," 12:30-2:30 p.m., Nesbitt room 4105

For more information, contact the UNG Office of Multicultural Student Affairs.